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ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

3 1833 0

415 624

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS

The 1 riumph of the Cross

NELLIE ARNOLD PLUMMER

For forty-five years a Teacher — forty years of which were in the Public Schools
of "Washington, D. C-; more than thirty-six years at Orphans’ Home,

Sth and Euclid Sts. N. W-; Fifty-six years a communicant of
St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md.; Twenty-
seven years Treasurer of the Bladensburg Union.

HYATTSVILLE, MARYLAND,
1 9 2 7.

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i c d? » >£"** — ) i

BY N K L, L, I K ARNOLD PLUMMER

1 o

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

PREFACE

As I listened from childhood to (lie story of my parents,
eldest sister, and brother — (of their suffering and sorrow, their
fear and anxiety, their loneliness, failure and disappointment,
their doubt, darkness and torment) that the Sin of Slavery
had caused them, 1 have “desired with desire” to write it, that
others, though discouraged from a different cause, might
prove faithful by doing right, and thus overcome.

This work should have been done long ago, but it had
to be postponed, and now, my strength fails me. So, I beg
vour everv consideration for failures, as it is not at all what I
intended it should be.

So intently have I desired to tell tin’s story, that I have
mortgaged some of our land to the extent of a thousand dol¬
lars that 1 might answer what i believe to be the Voice of
God within me — “Before they call, I will answer, and while
they arc yet speaking, 1 will hear— sailh the Lord. — (Isa. Go:
21). “Dark clouds bring waters, when the bright bring
none.” So heavy losses shall not deter me from telling the
Truth as I know it.

If my little work is not criticized, I shall know it is not
worth while. My heart’s desire is that it may Do Good!
Our motive is that many (in our vicinity at least), shall know
the truth, for the “Truth shall make us free.”

Should this little work influence just a few of our young
people to show the gratitude due those who went before them,
I shall rejoice at The Hand of God in History. — Josh. 1:21;
Dent. 8:2.)

How I thank ALL who have helped me in the least way —
especially my sister, Julia, who is nearly twelve years our
senior. During these liflv-one vears that Mother has been ah-
sent, I have never needed a mother's care, so faithfully has
she performed her duty.

Even now at our age, when we do not know “what will
be tomorrow,” she is willing, with me. to make the sacrifice.

Nellie Arnold Plummer,

llyattsville, Md.,

March 31, 1927.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

DEDICATION

TO MY FATHER

Whose fatherhood made real for me The Fatherhood
of Cod.

TO MY MOTHER

Whose Truth, Fidelity, Self-control. Self-sacrifice. En¬
durance. Faith in Cod (which she showed by “Loving her
Neighbor"), Oralitude. Mercy, Joy. and Peace, made me to
know that against such there is no law.

TO MY SISTER, MIRANDA

Who possessed the Power to Convince Others, because
she Walked and Talked with Cod.

TO MY R ROT HER, HENRY

Whose Energy and Pluck led him to he Pioneer, Friend,
and Rrother to manv who were discouraged.

This hook is most affectionately DEDICATED for what
they, these four, did for us. These four who have passed
Out of the Depths into Eternal Life!

(m.iiur. n:nyi

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

APPRECIATION.

To Mrs. Dora Cole-Norman and Mrs. Carriebcl Cole-
Plummer:

I wish to pour out my heart-felt gratitude for your en¬
couragement while 1 was struggling just about to faint — as
the task of completing- my book seemed too great. Being
the teachers that you are, you must have seen my weakness
and encouraged me not to give up — but finish.

While I know this work does not come up to your ideal,
still it is the Truth, nevertheless. I shall not soon forget the
interest you showed in my feeble effort.

May God richly bless you and yours.

Your grateful friend,

Nellie A. Plummer.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I

A Colored American — Adam Francis Plummer, His An¬
cestors, and other Kinfolk, Household of Plummers, Lord
Baltimore. Characteristics of Adam F. Plummer. The
Value of an Opportunity.

CHAPTER II

The Beginning of Sorrows. Sarah Ogle Hilicary. Nel¬
lie 0 r m c-Sa u n dc r s- A r n o i d .

The Marriage

The Children.

Death of Sarah O. Hilleary. Disappointment and chag¬
rin at Failure to Escape to Freedom.

CHAPTER III

The Sale! Meridian Hill, Washington, I). C. Mary Ann
Tolley Dorsev-Thompson. Judge Thomas B. Dorsey, Mount
Hebron, Ell ico t ts City, Howard County, Md. The Whipping.
The Pass, March 21, 1850. The Daguerrotvpes. William
Robert Arnold.

CHAPTER IV

February and March, 1859. “I’ll never ask you to read
another letter for me ‘During Ash and Oak.’ ” Rev. J. J.
Herbert, minister of the African Methodist Episcopal Church,
A Quarterly Ticket. Levi Gillis, her class leader. John
Brown, December 2. 1859. Abraham Lincoln, 1860. His
First Inaugural Address.

CHAPTER V

The Twins. Sarah J. Nicholson, “Mother's Friend.’’
Levi Hurdle’s Slave* Pen, Alexandria. Va. New Orleans. To
offer one prayer for her children and die. What a little
boy’s advice did. Miranda’s first and only letter from New
Orleans. Don’t stop praying! “I’ll find her and bring her
.back to you.”

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER VI

The shoe on the other foot. The emancipation procla¬
mation, January 1, 1803. Gettysburg address, November 19,
1808. Second Inaugural, March 1, 1 8(>f> (see part II, Patri¬
otism). In Baltimore City’s Orphans’ Court, December 9,
1803. Home at last, Riverdalc, Md. Clark Culvert Hyatt’s
Mansion.

CHAPTER VII

The ninety and nine. Death of Charles R. Calvert, Elias
Home. No word of Miranda. Miranda in New Orleans,
May 21, 1801 to October, 1800. Events in and near Riverdalc,
1801-1800. Assassination of Lincoln! Mrs. Ann Dove

Young.

CHAPTER VIII

October 19, 1800 ! ! ! “Here we Are !” Simultaneously
“Miranda” “Mother” ! ! ! The Church! A new era. The
Union! Our own home. Second Baptist Church, 3rd St.,
between II and I Sts. N. \V., Washington, D. C. Miranda
and Henry by Way of the Cross. Henry’s own home. Ill¬
ness of his wife. “Happy New Year!”

CHAPTER IX

Death of Mother! From Father's
Seminary. The great Dr. George Marian

Journal. Wavland
Prentiss King!

CHAPTER X

Orphans’ Home, 8th and Euclid Sts. X. W., Washington,
D. C. Misses Eliza and Jane Hcacock, Miss Julia Maria Bart¬
lett, Miss Sarcpta Storum, Miss Sarah Bullard, Mrs. Anna
Eliza Williams, Mrs. Romena Huntcr-Jenscn, Miss Loretta
Simms.

CHAPTER XI

St. Paul's Baptist Church, Rladenshurg, Md., 1870-1920.
The Immortal Friends. Retirement from a public duty.
Faithful over a few things. Entrance into larger activities.
Review of the family. Foster Sister, Emma Peterson.

iu.

CHAPTER XII

All ministers traced down to the present one. The
Church, 1800-1920, sixty years. The Conclusion. End.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

“And it shall conic to pass, that before they call, I will
answer- -and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” —
Isa. 05:2 1.

“Why art thou east down. O my soul? And why art
thou disquieted in me? Hope thou in Cod; for I shall yet
praise Him for the help of His countenance.”--— Ps. 12:5.

“Save me, 0 Cod, for t lie waters are come in even unto
my soul; I am come into deep waters; so that the Hoods run
over me.” — Ps. 09:1, 2.

“I am brought into so great trouble and misery, that I
go mourning ah the day long.” — Ps. 88:0.

“The sorrows of my heart are enlarged; Oh! bring Thou
me out of my distress.” — Iks. 25:17.

“Thou hast proved and visited my heart in the night
season.” — Ps. 17:3.

“My heart is smitten and withered like grass. I am even
as a sparrow alone upon the house top.*’— Ps. 102:17.

44"

‘Mv wife and children hast Thou put away from me. and
hid mine acquaintance out of my sight.” -Ps. 88:18.

“For Thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes
from tears, and mv feet from falling.”— Ps. 11(5:8.

“Rut 1 am poor and needy; vet the Lord thinkelh upon
me. Thou art mv help and my DELIVERER; make no tur-
rving, () mv Lord.” Ps. 10:17.

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

PART I.

BY WAY OF THE CROSS
or

THE STORY OF A COLORED AMERICAN

CHAPTER I

ADAM FRANCIS PLUMMER

“Few hours of peace I enjoy, and they are succeeded by
pain. If a moment of praising my God, I enjoy, I have
hours again to complain.

“While sorrows encompass me round, and endless dis¬
tress I see. astonished I cry, ‘can a mortal he found that is
surrounded by trouble like me?’ ”

“Oh, when shall my sorrows subside, or when shall my
sulFcrings cease?”

V t

The above quotations are copied from Adam F. Plum¬
mer’s diary, where they appear several limes, not because he
had no faith in himself, bill because of actual trouble. No
one enjoyed a joke or a hearty laugh more than he. And
yet, no one could be more serious than he.

THE HOUSEHOLD OF PLUMMERS

Cupid Plummer, who was owned by Jack (John) Hodge,
fought in the Revohd ionarv War seven vears. It was eus-
tomary for masters to send their slaves to battle in their
stead.

Cupid Plummer’s son. Barney, was owned by George II.
Calvert of Goodwood. Prince George's County, Maryland.

Both Cupid and Bareev Plummer were noted for their
great physical strength. They lived to he more than eighty-
five years old. without being sick scarcely until the end came.

Said Cupid Plummer had another son named Adam. He
held all the panel's concerning his father's record in the
Revolutionary War. He died in South Washington, Febru¬
ary .J, 1 Xf>r> after repealed ciTorls to get the papers into l lie'
hands of his name-sake, Adam Francis Plummer, the third
son of Barney Plummer. A large bounty would have come
to us, had we been able to produce those papers at the War
Department, Washington, D. C.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Nellie Beckett, an Indian — Negro mulatto, a slave of the
Calverts, married William Norris, an Englishman, who had
to serve Calvert seven years for debt. On finding that his
wife was hearing children for Calvert as well as his own,
noting his helplessness to correct matters, he died of a broken
heart. Norris, with Philip Brashcars and two apprentices
made all the shoes worn on the Riverdale plantation. N or¬
ris had two sisters who accompanied him to America. The
sisters went to Montgomery County, Maryland, while their
brother’s time was bought by George Calvert, Riverdale,
Prince George’s Coimtv, Marvland. 'The Calvert children of
Nellie 1 Icekett-Norris were so white that they were sent to
Pennsylvania to live. From there Caroline, who had become
Mrs. Crompton, took her children and six sisters to Mon¬
rovia, Liberia, Africa, with other mulatloes who wished to be
free.

Sarah E. Norris, the daughter of Win. Norris and Nellie
Beckef t-Norris, married Barney Plummer about 1800. They
had three sons and five daughters — Henry, Elias, Adam, Ra¬
chel, Caroline, Rose, Ellen, and Elizabeth. Elizabeth, born
February 8, 1821, died December 11, 1925 — being 101 years
ten months and three days old.

This story is intended as a center about the life of Adam
Francis Plummer, Barney’s third son. He was born May
11, 1819, at Goodwood, Prince George’s County, Maryland,
of Barney and Saliie Plummer. Goodwood was a large plan¬
tation similar to Mt. Airy, both owned by George H. Calvert —
Lord Baltimore. When Adam was 10 years old Lord Balti¬
more left Goodwood and settled on another large plantation
further north, which he named “Riverdale.” Their old
mansion still stands. Riverdale, Maryland is known to every¬
one today. Senator Hiram Johnson of California is now
living in the old mansion. George Calvert had a son, Charles
Benedict, who was about the same age as Adam. Charles
Calvert married an English woman named Charlotte Norris.
(It seemed that she was far beneath his station in life. Slic'd
say: “Everybody who comes here asks for Master, Master,
Master! Nobody asks for Mistress — and she is very intelli¬
gent, I'm sure.” This shows she was beginning to die at the
top, although she survived her husband twelve years and
seven months.)

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

They reared five children at Riverdale — George, Charles,
William, Eugene, and Ella.

It was this son, George, who wrote us at Father’s passing.

Many of the characteristics of (diaries R. Calvert were
exemplified in the life of Adam. They loved each other de¬
votedly, such as was then common to master and slave. To
Charles, there was no duty too sacred for Adam to perform —

FATHER— ADAM FRANCIS PLUMMER

going on errands and returning promptly; careful to bring
the correct message; speaking the truth; being honest to a
fault; industrious to a most remarkable degree; actually
loved to work; retiring and rising very early (“Early to bed
and early to rise”), most faithful, no matter how hard the
task.

Unlike his master, Adam never used tobacco in any form.
He never indulged in strong drink of any kind. He had
great respect for womanhood, lie honored and obeyed the
laws of both Church and State, lie never had but one family

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

in all li is life. He never had an illegitimate child. In these
and other notable virtues he never wavered during his long
life, being nearly eighty-seven at the time of his death. Like
his grandfather and father, he was strong and vigorous, never
sick, so to speak, his health having failed him the last year
of his life from senile debility. He died on his own ten-acre
farm, “Mount Rose,” adjoining Riverdale, Wednesday, De¬
cember 13, 1905, surrounded by all of his children except
Elias.

MOTHER—

EMILY SAUNDERS PLUMMER

As father was so careful to pay his debts, we tried to
follow his policy — “Owe no man.”

His funeral was largely attended on the 15th. We did
not bury his body until just as the sun was setting on the
lOth, waiting for Elias who did not come. It was so ar¬
ranged that the grave digger and undertaker were the last
two hills to he paid, which was done when the grave was
filled. No hill of any kind, tax hill, store hill, nor debt of
any kind was paid for him after 5:30 P. M., December 10,
1905, having survived mother nearly thirty years !

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

College Park, Md.

December 11, 1905.

Miss Nellie A. Plummer,

Ilyattsville, Md.

Your sad note conveying to me the death of your father
was received last evening.

lie has passed away in a ripe old age, after seeking to do
his duty in tins life, after an exceptional manner.

Whilst his death will he a vacant space in your midst, his
memory should he cherished with high regard by you all, as
of blessed memory.

If not prevented, it will he my sad duty to attend the
funeral services out of respect to his memory. With full
sympathy in your loss of a beloved father.

I am,

Very respectfully and truly.

Geo. II. Calvert.

MISS CALVERT’S DEATH

Fatally Burned at Her Mt. Airv, Md.. Home, July 5, 1920
Baltimore, Md., July 10. — Miss Eleanor Calvert died at
Mt. Airy, Md., today, aged eighty-one. Her death resulted
from the burns which she received on July by being burned
by a lamp which she fell on during an attack of vertigo.
After extinguishing the Humes she lay in a helpless condition
for twelve hours and this exposure also helped to hasten her
death. Miss Calvert was the daughter of Edward II. Calvert,
who was a son of Benedict and a grandson of the last Lord
Baltimore. Miss Calvert survived her brother. Dr. Cecilius
Baltimore Calvert, with whom she had always lived, by about
fifteen months, he having died at the age of ninety-live years.

The funeral will lake place tomorrow afternoon at 1
o’clock at the family burial ground.

Dr. Cecilius Calvert died on the 15lh at his home. Mount
Airy. Dr. Calvert, who was the great-grandson of the sixth
Lord Baltimore, had attained the ripe age of 94 years. He

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

never married, bill lived quietly at Mount Airy with Ills sister,
Miss Eleanor Calvert, also well advanced in years. His long
life had been spent in this county, and bis generous, kindly
nature, and upright living had endeared him to all liis rela¬
tives and friends.

lie bad several brothers, but they all moved to other
States years ago, and it is doubtful whether any of them arc

still living.

Dr. Calvert was the son of Edward Calvert, who was a
son of Benedict, a grandson of the late Lord Baltimore.
George Calvert, of Rivcrdale, a brother of Edward, who was
the grandfather of Bernard Carter, of Baltimore. Mr. Cal¬
vert, besides being a member of the historical family which
governed Maryland when it was a province, was connected
with many Virginia families. Every student of the history
of this country knows that Washington's wife, Mrs. Martha
Custis, had a son, John Parke Custis, by her former marriage.
He married Eleanor, better known as Nellie Calvert, a famous
beauty of the dav, who was a sister of Edward and George
Calvert. One of her sons was George Washington Parke
Custis, of Arlington, the father of Mrs. Robert E. Lee.

Dr. Calvert’s home. Mount Airy, is an historic mansion,
which is probably 150 years old, and is famous for the mag¬
nificent collection of old portraits of the Calverts which it
contains. Rare old silver and elegant antique furniture are
also among the treasures of the famous house. Another
cousin of the dead man is Mr. Charles B. Calvert, of College
Park.

The funeral of Dr. Calvert took place on Friday at his
late residence Mount Airy near Rosaryville, this county. Ser¬
vices were read by Rev. Frank P. Whiles, Rector- of St.
Thomas Church, Croom.

The pallbearers were: B. F. Duvall, R. II. Sassecr, Geo.
T. Duvall, Charles C. West, Henry W. Clagelt, and Edward
Hollowav.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

TIIE VALUE OF AN OPPORTUNITY

As is well known, it was against the law for anyone to
teach a slave to read and write. There was a colored preacher
known as John Rowser, who in some way unknown to me,
had learned to read and write. He taught Adam. So. in¬
stead of spending his time among idle gossipcrs. or with those
who drank, Adam taught himself all he possibly could. I his
he kept up to the end. His rainy days were spent in mending
chairs, etc., or in doing other lesser jobs. But for his having
improved that ONE opportunity to learn how to read and
write, we would know very little of our family history, not
even the births and deaths.

Another opportunity that father improved was to plant
and raise things for sale. From a youth Mr. Calvert allowed
him to use three or four acres of ground for himself. He

was skilled in planting fruit trees. A certain horse or mute
was given for his ploughing or hauling.

Thus lie always had money with which he paid His debts
promptly, and later helped mother to keep us alive, no matter
how distant.

We, his children, never cease to he thankful for the
sterling character of our father. Adam F. Plummer (would
that I could say we inherited it!) The ten-acre farm wc in¬
herited is nothing compared with the good example he set
us. Next to his good example, we prize his ‘‘Diary” as a
legacy, indeed! it is a grayish hack book. Id inches by X
inches, well hound, leather tipped, so covered as to look like
thousands of hooks packed in rows. It contains about two
hundred pages of Muish paper with dates from May 30, IN 11
to December 13, 1005. Father wrote everything of interest
that took place on Riverdale or elsewhere.

A slave once asked father to read his letter which he
did. The slave asked his master. Mr. ('.lias. B. Calvert to
read it also. Being so badly written and the spelling so poor,
Mr. (advert couldn't make it mil. Whereupon the slave
prompMv to!d his master what it meant. He sternlv inquired:
“How did you know?” Of course he was compelled to sav:
“Adam read i! to me.” But for the close friendship of the
two from early childhood and Adam’s WORTH, he would
have been sold to Ihe hardest taskmaster to lie found in the
South. For any slave to know how to lead and write was an
enormous crime !

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

From that time, until his death, father grew more CON¬
SERVATIVE — was thought to he SELFISH, because he kept
all of his affairs to himself, as far as possible — even from
the wife of his bosom.

Somewhere, somehow, he had learned that he who con¬
trols himself is greater than he who takes a city. Adam
Plummer had unusual patience if waiting for nature to un¬
fold, or the carrying out of any plan in iiis mind, no matter
how troublesome, but he was no precept teacher, for he
would tell you once, but no more, if it could be avoided.

Here was one man of whom it might be said: “He loved
to work!” He often told us that he could do anything but
milk a cow. He did that once, and was succeeding nicely,
when t lie cow lashed her tail into the pail and in his face
so vigorously that the milk was all spilled, and father, so
furious, declared he’d never miik again. This he avoided
whenever possible. Rut for his respect for law and order,
his high temper and great determination would have gotten
him into manv serious difficulties. He loved farming in
every sense of the word. He could build a house, a barn,
stable — anything.

He could not only mend but make shoes. Life on that
vast Riverdale estate with such a fond master taught him to
do everything, and to do it well. He loved nature — trees,
plants, birds, animals, and his fellow-man — the change of
seasons, sun, moon, and stars.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

CHAPTER II

THE BEGINNING OF SORROWS

On this Riverdale plantation was a COLONY of Negro
servants, the Lees, Scotts, Beckets, Snowdens, Gilberts, Allens,
Carricks, Gu l ridges. Norrises, Kents, Browns. Johnsons, Bra-
shears, and many others were parents, sisters, brothers,
uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, and cousins or acquaintances!

Adjoining ML Airy, 8 miles below Bladensburg, Md.,
from which the Calverts had come to Riverdale, was a large
farm known as “Three Sisters.” This was owned by a spin¬
ster named Sarah Ogle Hillearv, and her brother, William
(Bill). At the death of William, Miss Sallie was sole heir.
Several nephews and nieces survived her when she died at an
advanced age, being heirs to her large real estate, as well as
her many servants. Father speaks of Clement, Washington,
Tilman, Leonard, and Marv Truman Hillearv. His iliarv
reads: “Sarah Ogle iliileary died August 81. 18.11, Sunday
night. Her will orders Adam Plummer's oldest daughter,
Sarah Miranda, to go to Marv Truman Hillearv (Washington
Ilillcary’s daughter), in Randolph County, Virginia.'’ She
died a minor.

Dr. Henson Penn was appointed guardian for Mary, who
was a minor. This is why Or. Penn could hire Miranda to
Mrs. Thompson, Meridian Hill, I). C., June 1 1, 18f>2, where
she would be with her mother, nearlv three vears. When

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mother went to Ellicotts City, Miranda was hired to the min¬
ister in Georgetown. Elias was kept by Tilman Hillearv for
his wife, Mrs. Louisa, who was kind to the little live-year-old.

MISS SALLIE’S ROMANCE

The story went that there were many suitors for Sarah
Ogle Ilillearv’s hand and heart. All of which she refused ex¬
cept one. He died before the marriage could take place.
Believing she was keeping sacred his memory, she never
married. It is said one suitor lost his mind because of her
refusal, lie would ride his horse up to her gate, and sing:
“Miss Sallie Ogle is my wife, (), that she is! (), that she is!
Miss Sallie Ogle is my wife. So, lare-you-well my lady love!”
Then he would ride olL

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Among Miss Sallie’s slaves were great grandmothers,
grandmothers, mothers, children, grand children, and great
grand children, for she seldom sold any of her people. Her
women were taught and required to he as chaste, as were her
nieces. All received great care, and much attention from
“Miss Sallic” personally, requiring them to sleep in the great
house until their marriage. 0, how different with the slaves
of surrounding plantations! Among her house servants were
two sisters, Lucy and Nellie Ormc, who had two brothers,
Robert and Benjamin. Their mother, Junia Inghram, was an
English woman who had to serve seven years for debt. The
Hilleary’s bought her time. She proved to be a line doctor-
woman for the entire plantation, and neighboring ones — those
of Mr. Alfred Wells (father of our Dr. Chas. A. Wells), Joseph
Roberts, and others. Great Grandmother, Junia. married
Robert Orme. Her hair was so long and thick she could sit
upon it. When she grew too stout to ride horse-back, she
was carried in a team when needed to assist the stork.

Benjamin Orme was sold to Col. Wright Rives’ father.
His daughter, Mrs. Maggie Orme Chapman Scott now lives
at 110 2nd St. S. W., Washington, D. C.

Robert Orme, better known as Boh, was an all round
man — the fiddler as it were.

Lucy Orme married William Scott. Their six children
were Tilman, Josephine, Harriet, Margaret, Albert, and Sallic.
Tilman was sold, although heard from, he never returned.
His parents sorrowed to the day of their death, because of that
separation. Josephine and Harriet died quite young. Mrs.
Margaret Scott who died in 1911 was survived by two chil¬
dren, Mr. Edward Scott, who had lived for years with banker
C. C. Clover, and the late Mrs. Rosa Scott-Morris. Rosa’s
husband, three sons and two daughters survive her.

Mr. Albert Scott, who died January 2S, 1890, is survived
by a wife and son.

Mrs. Sallic Scolt-Richardson had one little daughter that
she lost while a baby, and live sons, Benjamin, William, Am¬
brose, Paul, and Albert.

Pardon the digression, but we think that Sallic and Albert
Scott, when young, were as handsome mulattoes as were
ever born in Maryland.

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Nellie Orme-Saunders-Arnold had twenty-five children,
all of whom were Arnolds except the first two, Emily and
Benjamin Saunders. William Hillearv sold Richard Saun¬
ders up to Annapolis after their two children came. Then
Nellie married Frank Arnold. Hence that large family of
Arnolds who have been accounted for elsewhere.

Messrs. Wi'liam. Harry, and Lorenzo Scott, were three
brothers belonging to the (advert estate. Lucy and Millie
went to Rivcrdale to visit tlieir husbands, William and Harry
Scott.

Lucv was taken sick while visiting. Her sister, Nellie,
and her (Nellie's) eldest daughter, Emily, went to Rivcrdale
(a great journey of eight miles for them), to visit tlieir sick
sister and aunt respectively. It was while on this visit that
Adam Francis Plummer and Emily Saunders met for the
first time, .lust a word more about Emily when at home, at
“Three Sislers” with “Miss Sadie.” It was a rare thing, in-
deed, for slave girls to reach tlieir majority before being mar¬
ried or becoming mothers. Re it said to the credit of Sarah
O. Hillearv that she taught those girls the value of a good
name, and personaliv watched over them so carefullv that it
was known far and near. She allowed them to be married
in her dining room instead of in the cabin and, with cere-
mony. She always had to see and pass upon the man who
was to marry one of her maids. She did all she could to
impress them wild the importance of being clean, honest,
truthful, industrious, and religious. The hardest task that
Emily had to do was to take a pail and go to a spring more
than a mile from the great house for drinking water everv
dav at noon. As she went she was to sing a livmn. That
would tell the field hands to come to dinner. One of her
favorite hymns was “Preciousness of Jesus.” -

“How tedious and tasteless the hours When Jesus no
longer I see!”

So loving, kind, faithful, and obedient was Emily that
her mother reallv overtaxed her with the care of her vounger
brothers and sisters, whenever she was not waiting upon
“Miss Sallie." So happy and content was Emily that she
did not marry until she was 2d vears old. Before tracing the
life of Adam and Emily further. 1 wish to mention certain
relatives of each, — Henry Plummer. Adam's eldest brother
went to Washington, I). C., after the Uivil War. and lived and

.TKftiiii o!

i • v W

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

died there; Elias, the next brother, went also, bill settled at
Arlington, Va. His two sons, William and John Wesley, and
their families live there still. Rachel, Adam’s eldest sister,
lived in Washington until her death. Feb. 2, l(.)0(j, with her
daughter, Mrs. Charlotte Shields. Rachel was noted for hav¬
ing nursed and reared the children of Rernard Carter, after
the death of his wife who was the daughter of Oeorge Calvert.

Resides Mrs. Charlotte Shields, Aunt Rachel's other chil¬
dren, are Mrs. Rebecca Nelson, Mr. Norris Carter, and Mr.
John (airier.

Mrs. Shields lives with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr.
and Mrs. Davis. For many years Mrs. Shields has been iden¬
tified with Asburv, as was her mother before her.

Caroline, the second sister, was the mother of the Grice
family known to so manv. It is said that Uncle George Grice
and Aunt Caroline loved each oilier perfectly. Their children
were George Wilson, Edward, Hannah, Josephine, and Ella
Grice. Mr. Wilson Grice was die father of Mr. Geo. W. Grice,
so recently deceased, Mrs. Rachel A. Gricc-llenry (of Croome
School) and Mrs. Ursula Gricc-Johnson. Each of these have
interesting families. Mrs. Hannah Jones was the mother of
Mr. Clarence Jones.

Rose, the mother of Mrs. Annie Piper, was sold, Alas!

Elizabeth (Lady Elizabeth as I love to call her) now
more than a hundred years old. lives in Washington with her
daughter, Mrs. Christy Wells.

Mrs. Carrie Green, her daughter, of Warren. Ohio, had
a son whom she lost. Hi* was said to he extra intelligent.
Aunt Elizabeth has two other children, Mrs. Laura Martin
and Mr. ilenrv Plummer.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

THE PASSING OF LADY ELIZABETH
PLUMMER-CARPEXTER.

Washington, D. C., Dec. 15, 1925.

Elizabeth Plummer-Carpenter was born February 8th,
1821, being 101 years, ten months, and 3 days old, at the lime
of her death, which occurred Friday, December 11, 1925, at
4 o’clock p. m., at her residence, PJltF/i Eighth St., X. \V.,
Washington, 1). C.

She was {lie youngest of a family of three brothers and
five sisters, of William Barney and Sarah Xorris-Plu miner.
She was born at Goodwood, Prince George’s County. Mary¬
land, of slave parents who were owned by John Hodge, the
said John Hodge's father hired her grandfather, Cupid Plum¬
mer to fight in the Revolutionary War. These Plummers
were noted for great physical strength. They were slaves
subject to hard tasks until the Emancipation Proclamation
was issued January 1st, 1803.

In 1850, she married James Carpenter. Ten children
were born to them, four of whom survive her, — Mrs. Laura
Martin. Mrs. Caroline Green, Mrs. Christy Wells, and Mr.
Henrv Plummer. She is also survived bv three grandchildren
and one great-grandchild, and many great nephews and
nieces. She was the loving aunt of the late William and
Wesley Plummer, of Arlington. Ya.. Mrs. Rebecca Nelson,
Mrs. Annie Piper. Mr. Geo. Grice. Mrs. R. A. Grice. Henry, Mr.
Clarence Jones, Mrs. Julia Plummer-RufYin, Dr. R. F. Plum¬
mer, and others.

She had been a devout Christion ever since she was six¬
teen years old. .She and her sister Caroline were read in at
the love feast held in Asburv Church in 1807. having joined in
1800. When the People’s Congregational Church was
formed, she joined with them, and remained until her death.
She never ceased to thank God for her deliverance from slav¬
ery both physical, and spiritual.

Her funeral services were held at the People’s Congre¬
gational Church, M St., between Sixth and Seventh Sts.,
N. W., Washington, I). C.

, f ”ii. ji »;f, * »r- «i •

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Too much praise could not be given to her Pastor, Rev.
Brown, and his Choir for the solemn dignitv with which they

V ' V

carried out the services — Text, Job 5:20 — “Thou shait come
to thy grave in a full age, etc.’’

Rev. Brown said he had taken communion to her every
month for four years, having communed her Thursday, the
day before she died.

His eulogy of her was sincere, because lie had visited his
aged member and knew her delight was not in meat and drink,
but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

The Obituary was read by her niece, Nellie A. Plummer.
Before reading, she said, “Today we do not sorrow as those
who have no hope, but rather rejoice, because Lady Elizabeth
has triumphed even over death. We say, “Take the shoes
from off thy feet, for tiie place on which thou standest is Holy
Ground.” She was no slanderer, but a seeker after the truth.
All who know of her Godly conversation will testify that it
was her chief delight to declare, “I’m not ashamed of the
Gospel of Christ.” She came up through hard trials and
great tribulations, yet has washed her robes and made them
white in the blood of the Land).

From father’s diary, I learn that on Oct. 2nd, 1800, she
loaned her brother, Adam F. Plummer, #5.00 — to help bring
his eldest child, Sarah Miranda, back home from New Or¬
leans, where she had been sold. It is also recorded when he
paid her back, seventeen days after the money was loaned,
her niece was home, for siic founded St. Paul’s Baptist Church,
Bladensburg, Md., Oct. 1 O', 1806, in a prayer meeting in
father’s house.

Twenty years ago today, and at this hour, she was at our
house in Hyattsville, at father's funeral. To keep up the old
time custom of helping, she brought me one dollar. In 1911,
I used that very dollar to help purchase lots in Harmony
Cemetery, where we expect to let her rest until resurrection
morning.

We, the family, could not close this remembrance with¬
out paying special tribute to her loving daughter, Mrs. Christy
Wells. For as gold is tried by tire, so her heart has been tried
by pain, but she never faltered nor wavered. Mr. Geo. Grice
and his wife have been son and daughter to her. Mrs. Char¬
lotte Shields and many other relatives never forgot her.

m'-,u ; Sffil

; ^ , •;, ‘ l" V? 4 . [ -i tn m ,.. ,,

■ r f.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Elizabeth Plummer was most industrious. She worked
hard and long, and if she did not leave thousands, it is be¬
cause she did her duty day by day as she saw it, whether to
her children, relatives or friends. Her kindly cheerful, loving
disposition and her great joy in the Holy Ghost made her
dear to us all.

SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER. HOWARD-CLARK
Founder St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md.
October 19, 1866

Mother, sister, aunt, and friend, Farewell, till that day
when just men arc made perfect. “Even down to old age,
all my people shall prove My sovereign, eternal, unchange¬
able love; And when Hoary Hairs shall their temples adorn.
They still shall like lambs in my bosom he borne.” “0, for
a heart to praise my God, A heart from sin set free, A heart
that aways feels they blood So freely spi 1 1 for me.”

frt Tut

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

THE FAMILY

George Wilson Grice was the grandson of Caroline Plum-
mer-Grice, and the grand-nephew of “Lady” Elizabeth Plum-
iner-Carpentcr, to whom he was very kind in her ripe old age.

GEORGE W. GRICE. PROMINENT BUSINESS MAN,

BURIED WITH FRATERNAL HONORS

George Wilson Grice, well known undertaker and busi-
ness man of the city; and a native citizen of Washington,
passed away on Saturday. June 2t>, and was buried on l ues-
day afternoon from Lincoln Memorial Congregational Church.
The funeral was one of the largest ever held from that edi¬
fice. The church was packed to the doors and even more
people remained outside throughout the funeral ceremonies
than were inside.

The body was escorted from the residence of the de¬
ceased at 1 125 Sixth Street, bv the Acacia Grand Lodge of
Masons, Henderson Comanderv of Knights Templars, repre¬
sentatives of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite Masons
and delegations from the Elks, order of Moses and about fif¬
teen other fraternities, societies and business organizations.

Rev. R. W. Brooks, pastor of the church in which the
deceased has been a member for over forty years, and of
which he was treasurer and a trustee at the lime of his death,
conducted the funeral services. He was assisted by the Rev.
Daniel E. Wiseman and Dr. Sterling N. Brown.

Manv Flowers

The floral tokens were beautiful and several carriages
were required to transport the many large bouquets and em¬
blematic designs. These were all evidences of the esteem
with which the deceased was held, a fact tersely described by
Dr. Brown who said that George Grice was “a big brother to
the community and his people.”

George Wilson Grice was born in Washington on June
20, 1S70, making him tiftv-six vears of age at the time of his
death which occurred after a brief illness of but nine days.
He was married in RS02 to Mary L. Swann of Maryland who
survives him after a happy married life of thirty-three years
during which eleven children were born to bless the union.

• ; — /;, !)

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Four of these survive. They are George, Blanche, Ulysses
and Rose, all of whom reside here. A four-year-old grand¬
daughter, Ruth the child of George, misses grandpa. Two
sisters, Mrs. Bessie Johnson and Mrs. Alberta Henry, and a
foster sister, also survive him.

At midnight, Monday night, the Janathan Davis Consis¬
tory members, working in the customary Knights of Kodasli
degree, performed the solemn ceremonies that mark the pass¬
ing of a member of the Supreme Council of thirty-third and
last degree Masons. Ill. Deputy of the Valley William Ed¬
wards, M. P. Coinmander-in-Chief Henry Brown, and Lt.
Commander Ben. F. Arrington, with their respective stall’s,
conducted these ceremonies at the home of the deceased.

Fraternal Man

Mr. Grice was one of the most widely connected fraternal
men in the city, being a member of the most of the known
organizations. He was a Mason of every degree, belonging
to Widow's Son Lodge, No. 7, F. A. A. M., and was Past Junior
Grand Warden of the Acacia Grand Lodge. He was a mem¬
ber of Keystone Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, of Henderson
Commanderv Knights Templars, of Zoroaster Chapter of the
Knigths of Kodasli, Jonathan Davis Consistory of 62 degree
Masons, and the Supreme Council of A. A. S. R. Masons of
the Southern Jurisdiction.

He was Grand Master of the A. I. Order of Moses and
treasurer of the Council of Past Grand Officers of the Order.
He was Grand Deputy of District Grand Lodge No. 5 of 1. O.
of G. Samaritans and 1). of Samaria; a member of Western
Star Tabernacle, Xo. 855 of O. G. F.; a member of Columbia
Lodge, Xo. 85, I. B. P. 0. Elks of the World; Capital City
Lodge, Xo. 12, Knights of Pythias; Beverly Lodge, Xo. 1, Sons
and Daughters of Liberty; Bloom of Youth Lodge of G. U.
0. of Odd Fellows.

He belonged to the Order of St. Lukes, the Drivers Bene¬
volent Society, Columbia Aid Society, the Protective League,
Men's ('Jiff Bock Association, the John Brown Beneficial As¬
sociation, the Order of Rescue Workers. s the Funeral Direc¬
tors Cemetery Association, the Potomac Funeral Directors’
Association, and the Knights of Jerusalem.

These organizations and several others were all repre¬
sented at the funeral.

!< M’rrh '3f fv

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Business Man

Mr. Grice was a typical man of his period who embraced
his every opportunity to advance his station in life or to serve
his people and community with equal avidity. From an
humble cabman he advanced bv stages to livervman, and
undertaker, to the places of public confidence indicated by
the fact that when he died he was vice-president of the In¬
dustrial Savings Rank and president of the Whilelaw Hotel
Corporation, two of the most ambitious business enterprises
in the city and nationally known monuments to our race ad¬
vancement.

He was also Grand Master of the Order of Moses, one of
the most substantial of the benevolent societies of the race,
at the time of his death. His desire to keep abreast of the
times is proven by his membership to two trade organizations
that enabled him to keep constantly informed as to the newest
business developments in his line.

He is reputed to have been one of the most substantial
business men in the city. 1 1 is check was never questioned,
nor was his word. Counsellor Thomas Walker was his legal
adviser.

In a statement to the Tribune Walter S. Carter, the cash¬
ier of the Industrial Savings Rank, said:

“Mr. Grice was elected to the hoard of directors of the
bank on December 11, 1922, and became vice-president on
June 11, 1923. Roth positions were held by him until his
recent death. lie occupied a position of influence upon the
hoard of directors and his unusual business acumen has done
much in bringing the bank to its present enviable position of
being one of the most stable and serviceable colored banks
in the country.”

W. I). Nixon, vice-president of the Whitclaw Hotel
stated:

“In the death of Mr. George W. Grice, late president of
the Whitclaw Hotel Apartment House Co., Inc., we have lost
a strong, capable, conscientious business men who always had
the interest of the stockholders at heart.

“It is a satisfaction to know that he lived to realize his
great ambition of placing the allairs of the corporation on a
safe and firm foundation.”

1 <* A-"*! i I J 4 t. 1 wll

■I; ' : It) . >|)-i llJJ

... '■ '■ V t|( ■ •

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

GRICE WILL IS A BRIEF DOCUMENT

The National Savings Trust Company is named as trus¬
tee of the estate of the late George W. Grice in his will filed
for probate last week. Mr. Grice died June 2d, last.

The National Savings Trust Company is authorized and
empowered to continue his undertaking business at Twelfth
and R Streets, Northwest, and his wife, Mrs. Mary L. Grice,
in charge, so long as it deems it wise to do so.

The net income is given to Mrs. Grice. Upon her death,
according to the conditions of the will, the trust shall cease
and the entire estate shall go to his issue.

The National Savings Trust Company is directed to per¬
mit Eugene R. Russell to occupy premises at No. 1809 Eighth
Street, Northwest, as long as he desires, without the payment
of taxes or any expenses. After his death, his wife shall have
the same privilege, the will directs.

Any part or all of the estate may he sold by the trust
company. Any sale of the real estate while Mrs. Grice is liv¬
ing, however, must have her consent in writing.

The will is dated June 22. 1920, four days before Mr.
-Grice died. It was witnessed by Thomas Walker, Edmund
Hill, Jr., and Robert B. Tvler.

Mr. Grice was said to he worth seventy-five to one hun¬
dred thousand dollars.

THE WEDDING

While visiting her Aunt Lucy at Riverdale, in 1839. Emily
said to her aunt, while passing one of the servants, "I wonder
what is that brown-skin, colored gentleman looking at me
so hard for?” Little did she then dream that he was to he
her husband. In due time Adam was permitted to visit
Emily at “Three Sisters,” having passed Miss Sallie’s inspec¬
tion. However, later, when she found Adam had taught Wm.
Arnold how to read and write, she said that had she known
that Adam was a “lettered” man she would never have let
him come on her place. At any rate fate so arranged that
on Sunday, Mav 30, 1811, Adam and hardly, with Miss Fannie
Garrick as bridesmaid, journeyed to Washington. I). ('... to
the pastor of the New York Avenue and Fourteenth Street
Presbyterian Church, Rev. Richardson, to be married. They
were informed that a license must first be bought. So Adam
went to Wm. B. Brent, and obtained the same. Returned to

: . . ' f-

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

the minister, and they were married. He took her home to
“Three Sisters.” He returned to Riverdale. For the next
ten years they lived thus, being permitted to visit her every
Safurdav evening, when he could stay until time for work
early Monday morning. He walked all that distance, carry¬
ing heavy loads — almost too heavy for a horse. And yet
they thought they were happy!

Says Aunt Elizabeth: “I was a voting woman, and
cooked the dinner when Brother Ad brought his bride to call
on mother,” (Mrs. Sarah Xorris-Plummer).

Adam so transformed his wife’s cabin by putting in glass
windows, knobs and latches to doors, building stairway in¬
stead of ladder to loft, real four-legged chairs instead of three
legged stools — that one of the white family said to Miss Sadie
that the next she knew, Adam would have a piano in the
cabin for Emily.

On Saturday, Feb. 26, 1812, (Feb. 2G, 1920, just 81 years
ago!) their first born came. They named her Sarah Miran¬
da, — Sarah for father’s mother. The babe was christened
bv Rev. Vinton. She greatly resembled her father, and was
perfectly devoted to him. She richly inherited her father’s
constitution, (being strong, well, hearty, and healthy all her
life long), as well as his strength of character.

Their second child was born July 81, 1884 — Henry Vin¬
ton, who was christened bv Rev. Merrick.

The third was Elias Quincy, born Oct. 20, 18 1G. The
fourth, born March 18, 1849, was Julia Ann. They, too, were
christened by Rev. Merrick.

Two vears later t lie inevitable occurred. The great
Sarah Ogle Hi deary, who so befriended her colony of slaves,
breathed her last on Sunday, August 81, 1851. What a day
for the nephews and nieces or the Hideary family! What
an awful day for the slaves!!

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER III
THE SALE !

“He who would be free must himself strike t lie blow.”
Our parents were no cowards. In 1845, when they had hut
two children, they planned to escape to a free state or to Can¬
ada. It was said that their marriage license would he the

CHAPLAIN H. V. PLUMMER

same as “free papers,” could they once reach free soil. All
was in readiness. They searched in vain for their marriage
license. Father had put them away. He did not misplace
things of importance. Much to father’s disappointment and
chagrin, a near relative of mother’s had taken their license
to “Miss Sallie,” and told of their plans to escape. Then

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

mother was put in the field to work as a punishment. That
mother’s relative would thus betray them, was unpardonable
to father. There was much talk of selling mother on two
occasions, before that awful day, the 25th of November, 1851.
Father had warned mother again and again, not to tell any
one! Rut mother loved this relative so much, she thought
she could trust her to pass the word, after they were out of
reach. They never saw their license again. This is why
“Miss Sallie” said, “Had she known that Adam was a “let¬
tered” man, she would never have let him come on her place.”

During the last year of father’s life (11)05), while I was
with him during the Easter holidays, he spoke of his bitter
disappointment at not escaping to a free slate in 1815.

But the betrayal of mother’s relative was just another
form of the curse of salverv, — a desire to “tattle” to the “white
folks.” Mother never dreamed what was her purpose, when
one dav she asked mother to let her sec their marriage license.
What we sow we reap. These same Hillcarys sold her son in
1858. Although she lived to be very old, her mind was never
clear after that. Just to have heard of him would have
been such a comfort, but she died without ever hearing a
word from her son. During Cleveland's inauguration, word
was brought by some visitors to the two sisters and brother,
that their brother still lived.

It was this same relative who pointed out Sarah Miranda
Plummer to Washington Ililleary in Ceorgetown, 1). C.. Sept.
1800, that prevented Miranda from visiting mother just after
we were born. Her owner did not know her, she had grown
so much.

It was hard for father to forgive that relative who bad
twice broken their hearts.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

FROM FATHER’S DIARY — 18 19

tt j

‘On March 24, 1819. Emily Plummer and four children
were for sale, hut she being sick at the time, was excused,
her youngest child being six days old. Three women, Hennie
Brooks, Jane Gulridge. and Emily Plummer and their chil¬
dren were for sale. Emily was excused, and her sister. Ilcn-
nie, was sold in her stead, to Edmund Duvall. Duvall sold
her and her children the next year (1850) to Mr. Spriggs,
‘North Hamilton,’ who owned her husband. Henry Brooks.

“Emily Plummer and four children were sold at public
auction. They were bought by Mrs. M. A. T. Thompson, of
Washington, D. C., Sixtenth Street, North to the Place, Meri¬
dian Hill. There she tarried for a short time, about four
years, then banished from my eyes, Dec. 22, 1855. I then
wrote several letters to see if 1 could hear from her, but I
hear from her not.”

“Life of Adam and Emily Plummer from the year of
1850. Mount Hebron. Ellicott City, Howard County, Md.”

Letter received March 2. 1850. It reads thus: “I write
to vou Adam, that Emiiv earnestly desires to hear from you.
She has felt very unhappy, etc.”

I get another letter. Mount Hebron, July 2, 1850: “Dear
Plummer: I am sorry that I have not been able to write, etc.'*

Again I gel another letter. “Woodlawn, March 20. 1857.
Now at Mrs. Thomason's own home. — Mt. Hebron being Judge
Dorsey’s (her father's) homestead.”

“On my marriage in Washington, D. C., 1 was married
to Emiiv Saunders, the eldest child of Richard Saunders. Esq.,
and Nelly Saunders, his wife, of “Three Sisters,” Prince
George’s County, Md.. seven miles from Bladensburg. Rev.
Richardson said he could not marry me without a license
from William 1>. Rrent. It cost me one dollar. Sunday, May
30, 1811, we were married by Rev. Richardson, pastor of New
York Avenue and Fourteenth Street, N. W., Presbyterian
Church. Miss Fannie Carrick-Scotl witnessed, as bridesmaid.

1811 — Marriage. 1851 — Sale. 1801 — War that brought
Freedom !

Again the unworthy man was broken up, and parted in
the end of the vear 1855. December 22nd.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

“I have been looking for a long time — after five months*
looking (Nov., Dee., Jan., Feb., March), I have received a let¬
ter, dated March 2nd, 1850 — Desires to see me, and to hear
from me. I think I shall never be comfortable again! But
O My God!”

“To Mother, Mrs. Sally Plummer, wife of Barney Plum¬
mer, August 31, 1852. Gifts for Goodwood, Prince George’s
County, Maryland:

REV. ELIAS QUINCY PLUMMER

“F if ty pounds of Hour, eight pounds of sugar, four pounds
of coffee, tea canister, with tea in it, coffee canister with cof¬
fee in it. And a shawl, a present to her sister, Christy Lee.”

Of all the heirs, Tilman Hilleary was the most aggres¬
sive. Such weeping and sorrowing had scarcely ever been
known among the slaves for their mistress, especially the
house girls. Scarcely had the burial taken place, when it was
whispered here and there who would he sold —who would be
kept — who would go to this or that niece — who to this or
that nephew. It was decided that Emily and her four chil¬
dren be sold at public auction! In October, just two months

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

after the death of the great woman who had kept that plan¬
tation togeher so long and well. Rut Emily wasn't well and
the sale was postponed until Thursday, Nov. 23, 1831. Mean¬
while there was born to Adam and Emily their fifth child.
Nicholas Saunders Plummer, horn on Oct. 13, 1851. He was
christened by Bishop Wayman in Union Bethel. Washington.
D. C. At last that awful day! — the day of the sale came. As
was customary Adam was allowed to seek a purchaser for his
wife and children. After much trouble and anxiety lie found
a Col. Livingston Hilbert Thompson of Meridian Hiii. Wash¬
ington, D. C., who said he would huv them. As I said that
never-to-be-forgotten dav arrived! Imagine if you can, that
woman who had been reared so carefully, who had seldom
ever left that farm since her birth there, standing on the auc-
tion block with her baby hoy. Saunders, six weeks old. all to
two days slumbering so peacefully on her breast, the four
other children standing close to her, while her heart and That
of her husband who stood at a short distance, was breaking.
No wonder he exclaimed in his diary, “Jesus, thou son of
David, have mercy onuis!” But all of this particular trouble

wasn’t over. A slave trader named M - , walked

up, and, snatching the bonnet from little Julia’s head, said,
“This one will make a tine maid for my wife.” As the

mother had often heard how hard and cruel the 31 -

were to their slaves, she couldn’t stand to even think of being
separated frfom 1-year-old-baby, and, although fore-warned
by her husband to keep quiet, she burst out in tears, exclaim¬
ing, “For God’s sake, don't let Mr. M - have my child!”

This so insulted M - that he exclaimed, “Whv A'ntv,

_ v *

what do you know about me? What do you know about
me?” And he actually got to fighting with another trader.
Meanwhile a friend of Miss Sadie’s snatched the bonnet from

M - and, placing it on Julia's head again, stood her back

beside her mother, saying, “You wouldn't separate the mother
from that baby?” Breathing out vile oaths, M - ans¬

wered, “Yes, by God! I am the one to make the ‘nigger’s*
heart ache. I care no more than I do taking a Iamb from
its ewe, by God!”

1847498

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

To pacify matters, and to punish Emily for speaking,
and to keep her from thinking she had won, Tilman Hilleary
said he’d keep Miranda (9 years old) and Elias (5 years) in
the Hilleary family and hire them out. O what a dagger to
he thrust into the already bleeding hearts of that father and
mother, after they had striven so hard to have all five of the
children to go with their mother. After they had cpiieted

M - his hatred grew so toward that slave mother that

lie declared lie had as much money as Col. Thompson, and
that he’d take Henry Vinton (7 years) for spite. This to the
mother was worse still, for siie could see him dreadfully
beaten and driven, etc. They took their little flock, and went
sorrowing to their cabin to make readv for leaving there for-
ever on Thursday, Dec. 2nd, 1851 — just one week from the
sale. After packing their belongings Adam had to leave his
wife in all that sorrow and uncertainty, so as to reach River-
dale in time for work- — having been excused hut for one day
— the day of the sale! So determined was that mother that

M - should not have her hoy, she planned an awful

thing! While her husband was busy packing, he missed his
wife whom he supposed had gone to the cabins saying ‘‘good¬
bye” to relatives and friends from childhood. In an hour’s
time she came in, and sank down exhausted. Then it was
that her husband told her some joyful news! He said, “Your
master, Tilman, came here to tell you Henry is to go with

you. He will not let M - have him. That mother’s

joy knew no hounds! She then and there confessed to her
husband what she had done. She had taken Ilenrv two miles
away, and lud him in .loe Robert's corn-field — in a certain
shock which she well know. She fully intended to wait until
all was quiet at “Three Sisters,” then go for the hoy and

drown him and herself, rather than let M - have him.

Thus she intended to end the anguish of spirit that had been
hers, since the mistress of “Three Sisters” breathed her last.
When her husband told her the “good news,” she exclaimed,
“Plummer, go call Henry, and bring him to me.” So care¬
fully did she direct him that he went to the very shock of corn,
(there being a ditference between the middle shock and oth¬
ers) and called, “Henry, Ilenrv!” hut no sound. He pulled
the shock nearly down, calling again and again, but no ans¬
wer. He returned (two miles, mind you,) and told her some
one must have been watching and stole llenry away, for lie

1 1 ' I r ■,

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

wasn’t there. She fairly flew, running as much as possible.
On approaching that particular shock she called out, “Henry!”
He answered. “Ma’am!” Forgetting her anguish for the mo¬
ment, she stamped (he ground and inquired, “Why didn’t you
answer your father, sir?” The hoy replied, “Mother, you
told me not to answer anybody but vou!”

Day was about to break when they reached the cabin,
and the husband, wife and five children were ALL together
again for the last time in fifteen years.

All of Adam’s early morning work and chores were done
up on time, at Rivcrdale. Mr. Calvert inquired of Adam as
to the sale. He told him that Col. Thompson of Meridian
Hill, Washington, D. C., had bought Emily and her four chil¬
dren. Miranda was not for sale. They will leave “Three
Sisters” next Thursday. Dec. 2nd. On that day Mr. Calvert
told him to go for (he mail, after which he could take a team,
return to “Three Sisters,” and carry Ins wife, children, and
other belongings to their new home. Adding, “Be here bright
and early in the morning.” “Thank you, master, thank you,
sir,” was Adam’s grateful reply, for he wondered how his
wife with a six-wcek’s-old baby in her arms could see to the
moving, and the hundred and one things to be done on leav¬
ing the place where one was born, and lived about 36 years.
Leaving the cabin where all her children were born, and
where the best husband in the world had visited her at the
end of every week and all holidays during the ten years of
their married life — leaving her mother, brothers and sisters!
No wonder they cried out. “O when shall my sorrows sub¬
side! Or when shall my sufferings cease?” So on Thurs¬
day, Nov. 25, 1851, Emiiv and four children were sold. Rv
the wav — that was THANKSGIVING DAY (a dav for thanks-
giving and praise?) And yet this husband and wife never
lost faith in God. They were heard singing, “How can I sink
with such a prop As our eternal God. Who hore the earth’s
huge pillars up. And spread the Heavens abroad? How can
I die while Jesus lives Who rose and left the dead? Pardon
and grace my soul receives From our exalted Head.” They
moved from “Three Sisters,” Thursday. Dec. 2, 1851, to go
to live with her new mistress, Mrs. Mary Ann Thompson,
Meridian Hill, at the end of Fifteenth and Sixteenth Streets,
N. W., Washington, I). C. Although hut 15 miles away, it
was the same to Emily as it would he if you or I wore no\y

• ' 1 . ' rl1 '

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

called upon to leave ALL and dwell on some unknown island
in the far Pacific Ocean. When Adam made that entry in
his diary (“Dec. 2, 1851, Thursday”), he also wrote, “O
wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me?” Note —
1841—1851—1861!

The Lord, even our own God was then preparing Abra¬
ham Lincoln as the Great Deliverer! What if Adam and
Emily could have known it? Not only they, but the thous¬
ands of other all about them. Not allowed to read and write.
No newspaper — no word spoken in their presence that whis¬
pered FREEDOM! Now to Meridian Hill every two weeks
or of toner, did Adam wend his weary way, loaded down with

necessary things for his family.

CATALOGUE OF THINGS MARKED— A. P

1. A pair of blue stone china dishes.

2. A pair of blue vegetable dishes.

3. A pair of blue edged dishes.

4. One gray gravy howl, saucer made to howl, with a ladel.

5. One blue Liverpool soup tureen.

6. A pair of blue dishes, square 7x7 inches, with tops.

7. One flowered dish, with blue top, with names of states

all around it.

8. This beautiful, pa i r of pitchers, flowered green and red,

hold a pint or more.

9. One milk white pitcher, hold half gallon.

10. Milk white teapot. Milk white sugar howl.

11. Milk white cream mug. Milk white cups and saucers,

one-half dozen each.

12. One pitcher, bright blue flowers on if, hold one-half gal.

13. One blue flowered teapot. One blue flowered sugar bowl.

14. One blue flowered cream mug. Rlue flowered cups and

saucers, one-half dozen each.

15. Two flowered gilted pitchers.

16. Two light blue pickle dishes.

17. Six white cups and saucers with handles.

18. One dozen soup plates. One large blue platter.

19. One dozen light blue, large dinner plates.

20. One dozen teaspoons.

21. Eighteen every-day plates.

22. Six knives and forks.

» * * ,

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

23. Six wine glasses. Twelve tumblers.

24. One dozen goblets.

23. Two common blue soup tureens.

26. Four salt cellars. Twelve crockware Liverpool plates.

27. One clock. One watch. One coffee mill.

28. One lard jar. One waslistand. One wash basin. One

pitcher. Two nutmeg graters.

29. Wooden ware— six chairs, three tubs, three buckets.

30. Two trundle bedsteads. Two bedsteads.

31. Four flat irons. One tea kettle. Two pots and pot-hooks.

32. One stove. One waffle iron.

33. One looking glass. Four pictures in frames.

34. Four glass lamps. Two tables.

35. Two 2-gallon lard pots.

36. Two feather beds. Two straw beds.

37. Three chests or trunks, and other things/’

This is copied to show that father purposed in his heart
to support himself and his family. “For the half has never
been told.”

Dear father listed these things that he might help mother
to keep account of them. They had been married ten years
when this inventory had to be taken, having left “Three Sis-
ters” to go to Meridian Hill. What pains it cost father to
do this! We have many of these dishes to this day. Sale,
Nov. 25. 1851.

The sixth child of this family was born Aug. 8, 1853.
Because she was so much neglected mother lost her on June
28, 1854. Mother named this child for her three sisters whom
she left behind at ‘' Three Sisters” — Marjory Ellen Rose Plum¬
mer. Instead of rejoicing and being exceedingly glad that
God had sent the merciful angel of death and taken her babv
out of its suffering — removed it to a realm where no slavery
could come, mother grieved over the death of that child as
though it was ALL she had. We were taught to call her
“Marjory Ellen Rozella.”

As far as is known mother never returned to “Three Sis¬
ters” but twice— 1855 and 1859.

She tried to be happy because her mother and other rela¬
tives could visit her. Father walked from Hiverdale to Me¬
ridian Hill to visit and care for his family, lie was MOST
faith! ill— every two weeks and sometimes every week.

■j

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Another ray of light came to brighten the wav for
mother in her new home. Her Miranda was to live with her.
“Having heard that your servant, Miranda, was out of a place
at this time, Mrs. Thompson having said that she would like
very much to have said servant, and would clothe her com¬
fortably, and give her $1 a month — Mrs. Thompson being ab¬
sent, I send the above message by her father, knowing Mrs.
T. is very anxious to have her.

“May G, 1852— Meridian Hill.

“K. S. THOMPSON

“Miss Kate” and “Miss Sarah” were Col. Thompson’s
daugthers by a former marriage.

On the 1 7 tl i day of the October following Marjory Ellen’s
death the seventh child was born— Margaret Jane, 1851.

Just four years after mother arrived at Meridian Hill,
Washington, I). (7, the Thompson moved to Mount Hebron,
Judge Dorsey’s farm, near Ellieolts Mills, Howard county,
about 20 miles southwest of Baltimore. Mrs. Thompson’s
father died in November, 1855. Hence their decision to
move.

Father wrote, “Again the unhappy man was broken lip,
parted from his wife in the end of the year 1855, Dec. 22nd.
I have a long time been looking. After FIVE months I re¬
ceive a letter. She desires to see me at Mt. Hebron. I think
I shall never be happy again. But O My God!”

By the fall of 185G, Judge Dorsey’s will had provided a
fine residence on a beautiful hill near his own, with servant’s
quarters. They named it “Woodlawn,” Mary Ann Thomp¬
son’s future home. There mother, Henry, Julia, Saunders
and Magg were taken. 0 how lonely! O what misery —
away from all she knew, with total strangers. Her husband
can only visit her at Christmas and Easter times.

Just a word about the beautiful (?) quarters at Mount
Hebron to which she had to go after leaving Washington.
Mother and the children were housed in an old log cabin that
had not been used for vears. The mud-daub plastering bad
nearly all fallen out. The dirt floor was something that
mother had never had before. The baby Maggie was a little
more than a year old. Saunders, being next older was her

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

nurse. The day after their arrival from Washington, mother,
who had been to the great house to prepare dinner, returned
to her cabin to see how the children were doing. She sat, to
take up the baby when Saunders exclaimed, “Mother, look
what is on ‘Sing’s’ (Little Thing) arm!” To her horror, she
saw it was a scorpion! Seeing mother so frightened, and,
not knowing how deadly was its sting, Saunders, not five
years old, knocked that poisonous creature, which was par-

JULIA PLUMMER RUFFIN

tially torpid, off the baby’s arm and killed it, before mother
could realize what had happened. l)o you think it was very
comfortable to sleep in that lizard harbor after that? Rut
she did, for nearly a year, moving to “Woodlawn” in the fall
of 1856, with Mrs. Thompson, where a new frame house had
been built for her, (mother) and the children.

When father came to Mt. Hebron during Easter, 1856,
he transformed that old dilapidated cabin into a safe, and
more comfortable place.

T11E TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Judge Dorsey was a wealthy man. lie descended from
the early settlers. lie dearly loved his Mary Ann, as lie did
the rest of his children. Rut when she married against his
wishes it was dreadful. Married an Abolitionist, too, where¬
as all the Dorsey’s strongly favored slavery. Gilbert Liv¬
ingston Thompson was a poor man as compared with the
Dorseys. Although he was credited with having a master
mind, as an inventor, he never succeeded at any of his many
attempts to reach fame and riches. This made him very irri¬
table. He was most cruel to his wife’s servants, especially
the little children — striking them with anything he happened
to have in his hand or could reach. Kicking even the little
girls, from four years old, with his heavy boots — cursing with
every breath lie drew, when out of his wife’s hearing. This
man was a direct descendant of the great statesman, Robt. R.
Livingston, one of the leading minds at the Continental Con¬
gress, helping to shape the Declaration of Independence. Gil¬
bert Livingston Thompson (nick-named “Old Tez,” by Mary
Ann Thompson’s slaves) thought Emily Plummer, their cook,
to be a most saucy and independent slave, because she de¬
fended her little children from his Fierce and brutal attacks,
by telling them to run, “Run, run,” she would say, “Don’t let
him kill you.” In 1858, while undergoing great sorrow, ow¬
ing to the death of kindred and friends, the bell was rung
for little Julia, nine years old, to go into the dining room to
sec what “master” wanted. When she entered he had con¬
cealed himself behind the door, and as the child entered, he
struck her over the head with a trunk strap, ihe buckle of
which cut her head so badly, they had to send for the doctor
to stop the flow of blood, take stitches, and reduce the terrible
knot caused by the buckle. This poor mother could not
stand. She complained bitterly of such treatment. When
asked why he hid and struck such a severe blow, he said he
had rung the bell TWICE and no one answered. Mother said
she’d rather be dead, etc. Whereupon Thompson said she
was beside herself; too important and impudent. That he'd
send for the constable, Lilly McCleary, weighing nearly 500
pounds, to whip her bare back, and thus put her in her place.
(The constable came with a cowhide and several yards of rope
to give her a good whipping. Ordered her from the kitchen
to her quarters to make bare her hack.) Mother was
picking a goose that was to be prepared for next day’s din-

l>«i. / J , ,i a ll in , Idi [

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

ner. Thompson came up and struck her over the shoulders
with his cane. She struck him hack with all her might with
the goose. He then declared that he would shoot her. She
tore open her waist and dared him to shoot, saying hut for
the children, she’d gladly die. She went into her room.

She said, “I’ll serve you. hut you shall not whip me,” and
shut the door. She was ordered out. She replied, “If any
one has any business with me let him come in here.” They
went in. Like a tigress cornered in her lair, mother snatched
up a chair, and swore that the first one who put his hands
on her, she’d kill him. And she meant it, for she was ready
to die. She rushed at them witii the chair. Thompson es¬
caped. The constable being so stout would have been gored
through as she forced him against the door with the legs of
the chair. Owing to the mercy of the Lord, the door was
unlatched in t he scuffle, and he rolled out. l>y that time
Mrs. Thompson ordered them both to let her alone, and that
she would sell her to the most cruel master in the southland.

The matter was discussed in the Dorsey famliy — Misses
Eliza and Priscilla saving Emilv was too valuable a scr-
vant to he sold, etc. So they sent for father to talk to mother,
for her insubordination and what would happen should it
occur again. Thus the volcano was quieted. Suffice it to
say, NO ONE EVER ATTEMPTED TO WHIP HER AGAIN!
They whipped the other servants whenever they felt like it,
but “Miss Emily” as they called her when displeased, went
unwhipped. Is is known that one boy, Horace died when
about sixteen years old from cruel treatment and over work.
Mother had to fight hard to save her children from a like fate.
This is only one of the many instances that fdled mother and
father’s hearts with greatest care, always being “anxious
about what shall he tomorrow!” Surely, it’ there is any “rest
for the weary,” they must now he enjoying that rest.

But the worst is not yet over. Before father could visit
mother at Mt. Hebron, he had to get from Calvert a “pass”
to go over the B. A 0. B. B. to Relay. Then change cars to
Ellicotts Mills. Dear reader: You have never seen a pass.
Here is a copy of the one given to father seventy (70) years
ago:

; i ■,

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

“Riverdale, Md., March 22, 1856.

My servant, Adam, has permission to go to see 1 1 is wife
who lives with Mr. Thompson at the residence of the late
Judge Dorsey, near EHicotts Mills, in Howard County, Md.,
and this is to request that he he not molested in going or re¬
turning during the Easter Holidays.

Chas. B. Calvert.

Mr. Scott, agent of B. A O. R. R., will please request the
conductor to let Adam pass over the rail road going and re¬
turning and oblige,

Chas. B. Calvert.

The conductor, Washington train, will oblige Mr. (advert
by putting Adam, the hearer, on the train to Ellicott Mills.

Jno. W. Scott, Agent for Rladensburg Depot.

March 22, 1856.

Now his children, and ten millions of others, arc free to
go wherever their money and good behavior will take them.
“What hath God wrought?”

While Adam Plummer, my father, was visiting his wife
at “Three Sisters,” among others that he taught to read and
write was mother's youngest brother, William Robert Arnold.
After Miss Sallie Ililleary’s death, and the sale, 1851, the
Ililleary’s hired out some of their servants, all that were not
to be sold in Washington, D. C.

In this way Nellie Orme Arnold and her son and daughter
lived in the city of Washington. Emily Plummer, their el¬
dest daughter and sister could hear from them through Wil¬
liam Dorsey, a free man who visited his wife who was a
servant also at Woodlawn. Rosa and Marjory remained at
“Three Sisters.”

“Mount Hebron,”

Ellicott Mills, Howard Co., Md.,

March 2, 1856.

I write to you, Adam, at Emily’s earnest desire. She
has felt very unhappy at not receiving any intelligence of
yourself nor her two children. The winter has been so severe
that she could not expect you to come to see her, but she

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

thinks as you can write, you might have written if merely to
tell her that her boy and girl are well, and that you had not
forgotten her. I think you may have written and the letter
miscarried.

She bids me tell you the children have improved in health
since she came here, though Henry lias just recovered from
the mumps. Saunders is fat and saucy as ever. He asks
often on Saturday night if Pappy is not coming to bring a
cake. Julia is well and wants to know what has become of
“poor Pappv.” The baby stands alone but cannot walk, for
a long time she would look round when told “Pappy’s com¬
ing!” She is very fat.

Emily wishes to know if you cannot get your master’s
permission to come to see her at Easter. Write and let her
know if you can come.

Emily is quite well and likes this place very well if she
could only see and hear more of vou. She thinks vou might
have gone to see Mr. Thompson, at Meridian Hill, to inquire
for her, or called to ask Miss Sarah, the Colonel’s daughter,
about her.

She wants you to let her mother know that you have
heard from her, and tell her to ask her brother, Robert, to
write to her how her sister, Marcelline, is. She sends her
love to vou and begs vou to write immediately. Direct to
the care of Mrs. M. A. T. Thompson, Mount Hebron, near
Ellicotts Mills, Maryland.

(Written by) — M. A. T. Thompson.
Mother’s new mistress after that sale, 1851.

“Mount Hebron,”

Ellicott Mills, Md.,

April 20, 1850.

My Dear Plummer:

1 want you to let me know why you wrote me so troubled
a letter. 1 was very sorry to hear that you should say you
and I are parted for life, and am very much troubled at it.
I don’t think I can stand it long. What do you mean? Does
your master sav he will not let vou come any more? Or
what is the reason you say we are parted for life? I should
like to understand your difficulties very much.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

I would not wish you to bring any trouble on yourself
on my account. If you cannot get bis consent to come to
see me, I don’t want you to do anything that would displease
him for me, but I shall be sorely troubled. 1 cannot think
we are parted forever. You have a good master and a good
bouse, and I want you to do all you can to please him, but I
hope be will let you come and see me and your children
sometimes. It is heart-breaking to think we are parted.
Write to me soon and tell me what your difficulty is. 1
can’t think it is your wish to give me up for another wife.

I want you to write me about my two children, if they
are well and comfortable, and how mother is. Saunders said
today: “My Pappy is coming todav to bring me a hat and a
pair of boots to go to church with Mr. Bobby.” I want to
have the baby baptized and I want to know if you can come,
when you will be able to do so, and I will wait until you come.

The baby has her chilis come back on her now and then
still. The other children are all well, and Henry sends his
love to his father.

I have been quite well, and have no trouble but the one
great trouble, the want to see you sometimes.

God bless and keep you!

Your affectionate wife.

Emily Plummer.

Written by M. A. T. Thompson.

Riversdalc, Prince Geo. Co., Md.,

September 21, 1856.

My dear Wife:

I embrace this opportunity of writing you a few lines
in regards to my coming over the road on the 8th of Septem¬
ber, having but a little difficulty this time. I arrived at the
station, Bladensburg, at 5 o’clock P. M. My master was the
first man I saw there. He did not say anything, but made
his bow and smiled.

Please say to Mr. and Mrs. Thompson that I am very
much obliged to them for your sake for seeing me take the

car.

i no (n\oi nrll i^ rn jin.monv m oj ni

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Miranda is not very well. Your Aunt Lucy Scott came
from “Three Sisters” on Friday. She staid three days on
account of her son, Tilghman, being sick. He was kicked
by a horse, very seriously injured, but the Dr. says lie will

get over it.

Your Aunt Lucy says Elias is well, but ragged and dirty,
says she mended his clothes, says Marjory is doing the best
she can for him. Good Lord, deliver 11s!

I am myself very much down-hearted to see the children
scattered abroad, and you and me far apart, to see the little
children shed tears for the loss of their father.

• -I saw you shed tears at the cars for the last sight of your
husband. I looked out of the car window and saw you as
long as I could, very loath to part from you, but this is the
way we must go!

I have seen William Dorsev, he had but little to sav, lie
has not got his free papers yet.

Your mother is not well. All her children are well. I
have seen your cousin, Jane Lee, she has moved to Bladcns-
burg.

I am not very well today, Emily, I have the toothache
and headache verv badlv. I have nothing more to sav. I am,

Your unhappy husband,

Adam Plummer.

In 1850, having been five years torn away from the birth¬
place of herself and mother, the place she loved all her liie,
mother grew verv sad and home-sick. The Misses Eli/a and
Priscilla Dorsey felt so sorry for her that when father came
up they sent them to Ellieolts Gity to have their daguer-
rotypes taken. They thought it would cheer mother to
have his picture to look at when he was gone. In one ot
her letters they wrote for her to him she said: “I can't believe
we are parted for life." Thunks to Misses Eliza and Priscilla.
Had it not been for them, we probably would have had no
picture of mother when we lost her, all the photos we have
of her are made from that daguerrotype.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Late in 1856 word was passed around that the slaves
might all be set free. Then there was a mad rush to sell
all hands and bank the money. Among the many others that
the 1 1 illearys sold was Nellie Orme Arnold, her three daugh¬
ters Marcelline, Sallie, and Ellen, and two years later, her
granddaughter, Miranda. All this was done unknown to their

NICHOLAS SAUNDERS PLUMMER

Sold when 6 weeks old in his mother s arms

relatives. But what hastened the Hilleary sale was a letter
from \Vm. Robert Arnold to his mother, telling her how happy
he was, and hoping they’d ALL soon be with him. He had
run away, and with the aid of the Underground Railroad, had
reached Canada. Fearing others would follow, they sold
all, even the old mother. Was father wrong in teaching
Robert to read and write?

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

He reached Canada in the fall of 1855. He next made
his way to Zanesville, Ohio. There he met Mrs. Hailstock
and family. In I860, he married her daughter, Mary E.
Their first four children were born there.

William Robert Arnold became a beloved and honored
preacher of the A. M. E. Church. His honored wife, for¬
merly Miss Mary E. Hailstock, and six children survive him.
Dear Aunt Mary was eighty-three (85) years old on Novem¬
ber 7, 1920. She is quite well, active, and happy.

In our large, large family and acquaintances, no one is
loved and respected by all more than ‘‘Aunt Mary,” as she is
affectionately called. She has been an angel of love and
merev wherever there was sickness or death. The true love
that existed between her husband and herself was never ex¬
celled.

All their children are highly respected. Messrs. Edward,
Charles, and Oliver are a joy to her. Her eldest child. Harry
E. Arnold, died in 1925. She lives in their beautiful home,
419 Q St. N. W., Washington, 1). d., with her two daughters,
Mrs. Nettie Thompson and Miss Laura G. Arnold, who see
that their mother has every comfort.

Miss Laura is a noted teacher, being a principal of one
of the public schools, Washington, I). C.

But Uncle’s own story of how lie escaped from slavery
will he more interesting than mine.

William R. Arnold was horn in Prince George County,

Md., August 14, 1880. He was from a very early date in¬
clined to he religious. His father and mother were very pious.
At the earlv age of ten vears he was called bv God to the

to V t to

ministry, though he understood it not. It was in this wise,
he heard a voice calling him three times in succession, ans¬
wering each time he arose and went down stairs, hut did not
remember having gone down. His oldest sister being down
stairs, he asked her what she wanted. She told him, with
a look of surprise, that she had not called him. Turning
around to go hack to bed, the room was suddenly lighted up,
appearing bright and beautiful beyond expression. 1 1 is par¬
ents arranged with his sister’s husband. Adam Plummer, who
could read and write to teach him. hut this had to be done
secretlv, and so he learned to read and write bv getting one
lesson a week out of the old John Comly spelling hook.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

In 1850 the plantation was broken up. the owner having
died, he was given to one of the heirs, who hired him out to
John Kirkwood, who kept a hotel at the corner of Twelfth
Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington. D. C. During
the month of August, 1855, his owner came to tiie hotel one
evening to collect his wages, and was greatly surprised to
find out that his slave hoy had been put in charge of the
hotel bar and could write down in a book charges of those
who had credit there. The first thing lie wanted to know was
who had taught him to read and write. When closing time
came, he told him that be was in the wrong place, and that he
was not going to allow him to remain there, that the aboli¬
tionists would be putting foolish notions in his head. Xo
amount of persuasion could change this decision, and so lie
was compelled to give up what was then considered a splendid
position. One day, soon after, while walking about the
streets looking for another place, he met a man by the name
of William Freeman, who said to him, “Arnold, why don't
you be a freeman instead of a slavcman?” The answer came
quickly, “1 would if I could.” Freeman then informed him
that if he could raise 810.00 lie could arrange to send him to
Canada by way of the Underground Railroad. The money
was speedily furnished, and he was told to go to the corner
of X and Thirteenth Streets X. W., on the 27th of the month,
this being August. 1855, and to stand there, was not to open
his mouth to any one, but just stand there.

At the appointed time he was there, and after waiting
about five minutes, another man came and within five min¬
utes more five men were standing there as dumb mutes. Ten
minutes later a large dark man came up. whom he recognized
as James Beckett. He said to Arnold. “What are you all do¬
ing here?” He said, “Doing nothing." Looking them all in
the face he passed on. About ten minutes later this man
Beckett returned and called them all together and told them
he understood why they were there and that he was their
pilot to take them in the underground railroad to Canada,
lie told them to follow him at a distance, just close enough
to as not to lose sight of him. When he had gotten outside
of the light of the city he stopped, and they all gathered around
him, he gave them instructions what to do, and said now
follow me, and over gullies, and through bushes and woods
lie led them all night. When day broke he hid them under

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

bushes and leaves. Alter resting awhile young Arnold’s
feet began to swell, so much so that his boots had to be cut
off his feet. Reckett went somewhere and in a little while
returned with another pair of shoes. He informed them that
their next stop would be Chambersburg, Pa., which ended his
route. When they reached this point he turned them over to
a Quaker by the name of John Wright, who kept them for
three days up in his hay loft, covered over with cornstalks
waiting to see if anyone was pursuing them. As no one
seemed to be on their tracks, three of the men were sent on
to Harrisburg. Arnold and a man by the name of Henry
were kept back to be sent on three days later. They were,
however, kept back more than thirty days. Mr. Wright
being short of help saw that they had plenty of work to do,
milking cows and husking corn. Recoming restless on ac¬
count of the long delay in sending them on, one night between
ten and eleven o’clock tlicv started out for Harrisburg with-
out having obtained the consent of the good Quaker. When
they reached Harrisburg thev were directed to a colored man
by the name of Webster, who received underground railroad
passengers. They told him the whole circumstance. He
said that as he had received no notice of their coming thev
would have to wait until lie could communicate with the
Societv to gel monev to send them on, hut if thev had monev
he would send them right on. Thev had the monev. and
left that afternoon on the four o’clock express, reaching
Niagara Falls at ten o’clock next day, and in a few hours took
the train for St. Cathren’s Canada.

Two years later, in the fall of 1857, he left Canada and
went to Zanesville, Ohio. In the year 185!), during a pro¬
tracted meeting, conducted by Rev. Solomon II. Thompson,
by the Grace of God Ik* was soundly converted. In INbO he
married Miss Mary E. Hailstock, of Zanesville, Ohio. A very
fine and estimable woman, an ideal preacher’s wife. They
have seen six of their children grow to manhood and woman¬
hood, four boys and two girls, occupying honorable positions
in the trades and the professions. Being impressed with a
call to the ministry in due time, he was elected a local preacher
under Rev. Jas. A. Shorter’s administration. He soon found
out that his very limited education did not meet the require¬
ments of his ambition, so he purchased books and he took
himself to earnest study. At this time he was employed on

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

a construction train, his wages being $100 per month. When
he informed the railroad company of his intention to quit
that he might join the ministry, they offered him $150 if he
would continue in the service of the company. He consulted
his pastor about the matter, the Rev. John A. Warren, whose
advice was, if the Lord had called him to preach he had better
obey and preach his word. The offer of the railroad com¬
pany was refused, and in 1807 he joined the Ohio Annual Con-

MARGARET PLUMMER BROWN

fercnce, and his first charge was Lancaster Circuit. He had
a new church built there. He also organized a new society
at Washington, Ohio, in a log cabin where we now have a
fine brick building. After serving in the Ohio Conference
two years he transferred to the Raltimore Conference, and
was appointed to the Clear Spring Circuit by Rishop A. W.
Waynian, and from there to Ml. Pisgah, Washington, I). C.
In the year 1875 he was appointed to Havre-de-Crace, Md.,
where he completed the present church, and added over a
hundred members from there lo Waters’ Chapel, Baltimore,
where he paid off a long standing debt, and added to the

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

membership over a hundred members. From there be went
to Cambridge, Md., and built a new church, the old one hav¬
ing been destroyed by lire. Here many souls were converted
apd added to the church.

From Cambridge be went to St. John’s, Baltimore, where
a wonderful revival broke out in the Sunday School and a
number joined the church, old and young. Bishop D. A.
Payne then appointed him to St. Paul's, Washington, D. C.
This charge was greatly built up spiritually and iinancially.
Here while serving this charge he availed himself of the op¬
portunity of taking a three years’ course from the Theological
Department of Howard Universilv and received the degree
of B. D.

At his last charge, Uavre-de-Crace, Md., there were over
50 conversions, and he reported the largest amount of dollar
money ever taken from this charge. He was a member of
the General Conference, which met at Indianapolis in 1888,
and had the pleasure of voting to elevate to the Bishopric
\V. J. Gaines, B. \Y. Arnett, B. T. Tanner, and Abram Grant.
During his itinerant work he served two years in the Ohio
Conference, three in the Philadelphia and 87 in the Balti¬
more Conference, during which time he has served three
terms as Presiding Elder, and has never been marked for any
misdemeanor in the General Conference.

Having reached the age of 78 years he felt that he was
no longer able to keep up with the “horsemen,” and so he
asked for a superannuated relationship.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

CHAPTER VI

JANUARY, FEBRUARY, AND MARCH, 1857

It would be hard to describe the sorrow and anguish
of heart that befell Emily Plummer, when the awful news
reached her. Two sisters, Rosa and Marjory, were left at
“Three Sisters,” all t lie rest gone — even her mother! O how
she prayed for deliverance! January, February, and March,
1857, were known as the time of the dreadful snow storms.
The snow was very very deep and drifted many feet in places.
After keeping the slaves in Alexandria, in Levi Hurdle’s pen,
they were all sold South. On reaching Richmond, they de¬
cided to send Nellie Arnold back as she was too old and too
white to sell well. When Rosa and Marjory heard that their
mother had been sent back to Washington, they decided to
walk up to see her. Tilman Hilleary persuaded them not
to make the trip. Saying if they’d wait, he’d send them up
in an ox-cart. They were warned that a heavy snow storm
was threatening, and that they’d better not go. But that in¬
born desire to see their mother whom they never expected
to see again, overcame their reason. They went, saw their
mother, and hoped to return before it was known they were
gone, but alas! So rapidly did it snow and drift that the
women gave out after reaching the adjoining farm to theirs.
A man servant of Joe Roberts who was with them, put them
under a certain tree, while he hurried on to get the ox-cart or
a horse. When he returned, Marjory, the single one, was
there just alive. Rozelia had wandered otf. On reaching
the cabin, Tilman Hilleary told them not to take her near
the fire, but to give her a few drops of a stimulant. It was
too late. She soon breathed her last. Rosa was lost for six¬
teen days. As the drifts began to thaw, the tip of her shawl
was seen, having wandered quite a distance from the place
where she was told to stay. This they thought she did in her
last desperate effort to reach her four little children.

In a letter to mother, dated Riverdale, February 13, 1857,
from father, I note: “Your sister, Rosa's body was found oil
the second of February, sixteen days under the snow. She
was discovered by two of Mr. Joe Roberts' men, in the fodder

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

field, two hundred yards from the finger-board in the ditch,
standing upright, one foot on the hank. There she stood be¬
fore the human view as a lump of ice. The boy, Lewis, is
still alive, but his skin looks as if scalded.”

This is why mother cried. 1 wonder what Mary Ann
Tolley Dorscy-Thompson would have done under similar
circumstances? Roth sisters died January 18, 1857.

The baby, Louisa Sprague, lived with lion. Frederick
and Mrs. Douglass, as housekeeper, until his second marriage.

Mr. Frank Sprague, the eldest, now lives at Lanham,
Md., about three milees from “Three Sisters.” There isn't
a more respected mail anywhere. He and his good wife
(Miss Louisa Allen, the daughter of Mrs. Mary Allen and
sister of Mr. George Allen of New York), celebrated the fif¬
tieth anniversary of their marriage in 1 DIG. May 20, 1020,
means that for sixty years they have really and truly loved
each other.

If they can keep well, may they live and love sixty more
years! Their Golden Wedding was a grand affair, amid their
nine sons and a daughter, Mrs. Edith Kenney (they lost one
little girl), and many friends, grandchildren and great grand¬
children. Mr. Frank Sprague is now eighty years old, and
as good as gold!

Alfred and Thomas went to Rochester to live, and grew
to be good citizens. Alfred was a student at Wayland.
Thomas never visited his old home again to mv knowledge.
These brothers went to Rochester to work, because their half
brothers, Nathan and Lewis Sprague, had preceded them.
There Nathan met and married Miss Rosa Douglass, the
daughter of Hon. Frederick Douglass. The following clip¬
ping about Robert Hawkins Sprague will explain who was
the husband of Rosa Arnold Sprague:

“Star,” October 17, 1906
DIES AT AGE OF 114
Robert Hawkins Sprague, Old-time Celebrity

Robert Hawkins Sprague, known to all in his native
village of Northampton, in Prince George County, Md., and
to many in the country for miles around as “Uncle Robert,”
sleeps his last sleep there, after a life extending over 114
years, “Uncle Robert,” believed to be the oldest man in

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Maryland, if not in this section of the Union, died early yes¬
terday morning. Rorn of slave parents, according to au¬
thentic records, in 1791, the old man spent the greater part
of his life in the neighborhood where he died, and though he
was sold several times during slavery days, he was finally
brought back to the neighborhood of Northampton. He was
married three times, and was the father of twenty-five chil¬
dren.

The old man is said to have had a very retentive memory
even up to the time of his death, and it is said he could recall

DR. ROBERT FRANCIS PLUMMER

all the Presidents from the time of Andrew Jackson to the
present day, and had been introduced to many of them, lie
could distinctly remember the early days of the country, and
had a vivid recollection of the war of 1812, of the capture of
Washington and of the burning of the Capitol and public
buildings.

During his lifetime he had met many of the prominent
men of the day, and his mind was stored with reminiscences
of John C. Calhoun, Henry Clay, Jefferson Davis, General

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Lee, General Stevens, General Beaureguard, Stonewall Jack-
son, General Grant, General Meade, General Sheridan, Presi¬
dent Lincoln, Charles Sumner, Thaddeus Stevens, and a host
of others, all of whom he had met and whose visiting cards
he cherished to the day of his death.

Through the cooperation of “Uncle Robert” many slaves
from Virginia and Maryland were assisted to freedom, and
many of the leading colored men of the country were aided
hv him to reach free soil in the days before the Civil War.
His loving descendants number eleven sons, eight daughters,
forty grandchildren, and twenty-eight great-grandchildren.
Among those living of bis sons are Nathan, Lewis, Frank,
Charles, Albert, and Thomas Sprague, all leading men of their
race, the first named being a son-in-law of the late Frederick
Douglass. Frank Sprague is an employee of the Agricultural
Department, and (diaries Sprague of the Post Office Depart¬
ment. Several of the daughters of the deceased also reside
in this city.

The funeral services will take place tomorrow afternoon
from the M. E. Church at Lanham and will be attended by a
large throng from this city.

Mrs. Marcelline Arnold-Winston was blessed to return
to Washington in 1883, having been sold twenty-five years
before, and found her mother passed away sixteen years be¬
fore. Her eldest sister, Emily, 7 years. Her sisters, Mrs.
Margaret A. E. Tyler and Mrs. Henrietta Brooks, she saw, and
also her brother. Rev. William Robert Arnold. The children
of her sisters and brother were all grown, as were her own
children that she had left in Independence, Texas. 1 shall
never forget a visit we made to Asbury Church. It was
Easier Sunday morning. 0 how happy she was!

She never tired of telling us of that dreadful day when
they were sold South. She never saw her youngest sister,
Ellen, again after parting. She said Ellen called to her: “0
sister, don’t leave me.” Aunt Marcelline turned and saw her
weeping as if her heart would break. It required her apron
to wipe the tears away. She was sold up the Red River.
Needless to say she never returned, nor was she ever heard
from.

Aunt Marcelline left for her home in the far Son i h two
months later. We will not meet again until resurrection
morning, when “just men shall be made perfect.”

i s>m ;l

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

She is survived by a son and daughter, Mr. Julius D.
Winston, a teacher, at or near Independence, and Mrs. Mary
Winston. When cousin Julius wrote me (192b), he said: “I
love the very clods on the graves of my parents, because
they taught me to do right!”

Her daughter, Mrs. Emily Winston-Williams, named for
my mother, died in 1911.

Emily’s sister, Henrietta Arnold-Rrooks, lived at 173G
L St. N. W., Washington, 1). C., for many years. There she
died; also her husband, Henry Brooks, who worked at the
White House for years. Their children, James, Julius, Alex¬
ander, Rettie, and Georgie, are known to many. Mr. Alex¬
ander II. Brooks, the father of Mr. .1. Stanley Brooks, the
sweet singer, has worked for the Government a long , long
time. Miss Georgie Brooks has long been a teacher in the
public schools, where she is known to be efficient and cour¬
ageous.

Emily’s sister, Margaret Arnold-Tyler, was the mother
of Mrs. Jennie Tyler-Burris, and Mrs. Sarah Tyler-Smith.
Aunt Margaret was noted for her generosity. She did many
things for others! Mrs. Sarah Tyler-Smith is widely known
as a singer in the Asbury Choir, and a public school teacher,
Washington, 1). C.

Emily’s brothers, Benjamin Saunders, died from over¬
work about the age of sixteen, while Dennis Arnold was sold
to Tennessee in 18 lb. I am told that Mr. Edward Arnold,
who was teaching in Tenn., visited his Uncle Dennis.

Lavergne, Tennessee

May 7, 1871.

Dear Sister Emily:

I received a letter from you about two weeks since, but
have not had an opportunity to answer until now. I was
very glad, indeed, to hear from you. That was the first
time I had heard from you. I have been sending letters otf
and on for five years, but could never get a reply. My warm¬
est love to you and all of our sisters and brothers. Although
I have not seen any of you in twenty-live (25) years. Still
my love for you all is not changed, and I want to see you all
once more.

If none of you will come to see me, I intend to go to
see you all the first opportunity. I don't know when that op-

■

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

portunity wili present itself, for I have five motherless chil¬
dren and have planted a heavy crop to try to make a living
for them, consequently, I can't leave until the crop is made
and gathered. My wife has been dead four years in June.
My five children are named after our relations: Ren, William,
Hcnrv, Thomas, Arnold, Geo. Washington, and Xancv Ro-
setta. I received a letter from Mr. Charles Parties, telling that
Brother Robert was a minister of the Gospel. Tell him I
am very glad to hear it, and that l and all the neighbors would
be pleased to see him. I not only would he happy to see
Brother Robert, but it would please me very much to see
any of you that could make it convenient to come. I would
like to hear what has become of cousins Hcnnic and Jane and
Aunt Cassil and all of my people. I wish you would sec if
you can find out anything about Monroe Souther's people.
He used to live in our neighborhood, and lie is living near me
now, and wants to hear from them. If any of you can come
to see me come to Lavergne on the Nashville and Chattanooga
Railroad. Inquire there for Dr. Jas. Charlton. I live near
him. I wrote to sister Henrietta last Sunday was a week.

Dear sister, you needn’t feel any uneasiness about this
being your brother, for I am undoubtedly him. and it seems
that I can see you now as plain as I ever did. My two oldest
boys are good plow hoys, and of course are a great help to
me. Write soon and direct your letter to Huntersville, Ruth¬
erford Co., Tennessee, in care of Mr. H. H. White. Love to
all. Your affectionate brother, Dennis Kimbro.

P. S. — You know I was sold to Mr. Kimbro. T go by
that name here instead of Dennis Arnold.

Alas! for poor Mrs. Millie Scott, the wife of Harry Scott
of Riverdale. Tliev had one little daughter. Ressie. One dav
Harry Scott, who was very fair, took his master's best saddle
horse and rode North. He was never heard of again. Un¬
like William Robert Arnold, he never wrote nor came back.
Rut Millie loved him. To the day of her death she waited
for him to return.

In time, their little Bessie Scott married Mr. Henry Clay,
so recently deceased, and their little Bessie ('lav, now grown
to be a great woman (great because she cared for her father
through a ripe old age in a beautiful and uncomplaining
way), made me very happy on June (i, 1921!

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

CLAY. Departed this life Wednesday, February 8, 7:15
a. in., at Freedman's Hospital, HENRY (’LAY. beloved father
of Ressie E. Clay of 1900 3rd ,St. X. W. Remains can lie seen
at Frazier’s undertaking establishment, 723 T St. X. W.
Funeral Sunday, February 12, at 1 p. m., from St. Mary's
P. E. Church, 23rd between G and II St. X. W.

CLAY. Companions of Keystone Royal Arch. Chapter
Xo. 11, F. A. A. M., are hereby notified to assemble at St.
Mary’s P. E. Church, 23rd St. between G and II Streets, Sun¬
day. February 12, at 1 o’clock sharp, for the purpose of at¬
tending the funera1 of Companion IIEXRY CLAY. Peg illa¬
tion dress. Ry order of

ANDREW J. WILLIAMS, Jr., Ex. 11. P. J. E. WITT-
IXGTOX, Secretary.

CLAY. Henderson Commanderv, Xo. 2. Knights Tem¬
plar. will assemble in Ibe parish hall of St. Mary’s Church,
23rd St. between G am) H Sts. X. W., Sunday. February 12. at
12:30 [). m., to attend the funeral of Sir IIEXRY CLAY. All
fraters must be present unless excused. JOHN E. SMITH,
E. M. J. KEY, Recorder.

CLAY. Sacred to the memory of my father, IIEXRY
CLAY, who departed this life four vears ago todav, Febru¬
ary 8, 1922.

Dear father. I’m lonely, so lonely without you.

Though I smile as I mingle each day with the throng;
I chatter and laugh and pretend to be happy.

With a void in mv heart as mv lips form a song.
Recalling the days we were happy together,

’Tis then that mv heart seems to burst with its woe;
While the clouds o’er me hang, I know ‘tis fair weather.

In the place where you’ve gone and I, too. hope to go.

RESSIE.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CLAY. Sacred to the memory of my beloved father,
HENRY CLAY, who departed this life five years ago today,
February 8, 1022.

When on life’s scenes my eyes close forever.

And my soul starts its final tliglit,

Through mysterious spaces of silence,

To the land of perpetual light.

With the vision of faith I can see him.

Where he stands on the other side;

Reaching out loving hands to assist me.

As I cross o’er the ‘‘great divide.”

BESSIE.

To the day of her death, mother would speak so tend¬
erly of those two sisters, and weep and mourn their loss.
() cruel slavery! If the righteous shall barely escape, where
shall the ungodly with their slavery appear?

When father’s letter came bringing the sad news of
their death to mother, she had to ask Mrs. Thompson, her
mistress, to read it for her. Never dreaming of anything so
dreadful, and not knowing that her mother had been sold, to
say nothing of being returned, mother cried and wept at the
news. She feared most of all that her Miranda and Elias
bad met a similar fate — ‘‘sold down South!”

Mrs. Thompson stopped reading and said: “Emily, if
this is the way you are going to cry and behave, I’ll read no
more of your letters!” Mother sprung to her feet and re¬
plied: “If that is all the sympathy you have for me in my
awful distress, I will never ask you to read another letter for
me during ‘ash and oak.” (Meaning while ash and oak trees
grow). Of course that was considered intolerable impudence
for a slave to speak thus to her mistress.

Father had again and again warned mother not to speak
all she thought. And again the talk of selling her was re¬
vived in earnest.

The fact that she was such an excellent cook, a most re¬
liable and trusted servant alone, kept her from being sold
one wav, and her children in another. But the Lord alwavs
provides. “I I is purposes ripen fast, unfolding every hour,
the bud mav have a bitter taste, but sweet will be the ilower.”

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Late in the fall of 1859, father cut his ankle while hewing
logs with a broad-ax. For the first time since 1851, mother
was allowed to visit father at Riverdale. She remained two
weeks, having left her children in the care of fellow-servants.

Of course, she went to visit Elias at “Three Sisters,” and
Miranda at Georgetown. This she did once before while at
Meridian Hill. Elias tells how his heart would break when
mother left. Of course, it has occurred to you why they
wouldn’t let the boy see his mother — he might run away.

NELLIE ARNOLD PLUMMER

As Henry had to sleep on a pallet in the great house, to
be convenient should any of the white people need him dur¬
ing the night, the greatest luxury he could want was to get
a little sleep in mother’s bed before being called to his pallet.
“Mother, just let me get one more nap (‘draw’), and I’ll go,”
said Henry. “It is ten o’clock, and master is calling you,”
mother replied.

From twelve to eighteen years of age, Henry had to be
son and husband, too, for his mother (1856-1862).

(52

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

GRANDMOTHER’S FEATHER RED

The dear Land of Childhood is country enchanted.

As all of us know who have left it behind;

’Tis we who are thankful that Memory is Granted,

Dear Memory, so gracious, so wise, and so kind!

And of all I he bright visions that blithely come Hocking
When Memory holds court in my heart and my head
There’s not one that quicker brings smiles — don't erv,
“Shocking !” —

Than that of my Grandmother’s Goose-feather Bed!

A visit to Grandmother’s! ah, but ‘twas cheering,

•Reward of Great Merit, and hailed with loud joy.

I still see her eyes ’neath her shading hand peering.

As up the Home Hill trudged her jubilant boy.

’Twould he late in the year, with the harvest work over,
With frost in the air and keen skies overhead —

You’ve heard of a luckv chap being “in clover’’?

’Twas nothing to Grandmother’s Goose-feather Red.
The supper! Ah. me! There was never such honey.

No, never, not anywhere else in the world!

It cannot be got now for love or for money.

And oh, the gold butter-pats, all dewy-pearled !

The home-cured ham, and the golden-brown biscuit!

Why, nobody now on such biscuits is fed.

’Leven seems quite a lot. but light-hearted I’d risk it

When hound for my Grandmother’s Goose-feather Red.
How nobly its hulk ’neath the blankets it rounded.

All covered with Grandmother’s log-cabin quilt!

How gently it yielded as blithely I hounded.

And “lit” in the billowing middle, full tilt!

How rapturously, as those billows closed round me,

I wriggled and wiggled, my prayers duly said.

And oh, how I slept when old Morpheus found me

Deep down in my Grandmother’s Goose-feather Red!

13G Green St., Georgetown, D. C„

March, 1858.

Dear Father:

I could have written to you sooner, but 1 did not know
your address. I begin to think that you will never get to
Georgetown any more, but I hope you will be able to get over

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

soon. I thought I would have been able to get down to see
you before this.

I have been in the city twice. Grandmother says she
would like to see you very much much. I have seen Miss
Sarah, and she says she wants to see you. She thinks you
will never get up that way (Meridian Hill). If you can’t
come over, write and let me know how you arc.

If you write to mother before I see you, give my best
respects to all. From

Your affectionate daughter,

Miranda Plummer.

“Woodlawn”

Ellicotts Mills, Howard Co., Md.,

December 0, 1859.

My dear Husband:

I received your letter and was glad to hear from you.

You must be sure to come up Christmas. Try to see mother

before you come. All the children send their love.

I got home safely, and found all well.

Your wife,

Emily Plummer.

Father was so glad to get this letter that he wrote on the
other side: “My dear Madam: I am glad to hear from you,
and received your letter with open hands and a joyful heart.”

No. 13G Green Street,

Georgetown, 1). C.

November 30, 1859.

My dear Mother:

I received your letter and was very glad to hear that you
arrived home safely. I would have answered your letter be¬
fore, but I was wailing till I could hear from father, have
been looking for him cvcrv Sunday since you were here, but
he has not been here yet.

I was in Washington on Sunday last, and called to see
Aunt Sally Johnson, as I passed by. They are all well and
send their love to you. I would have called to see cousin
Hilliard, but he was not home, lie has not got from the

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

country yet. Grandmother and Aunt Margaret are very
well, and send their love. I have been to sec her once.
Aunt Margaret’s baby is exactly like Julia (I am ironing today
and don’t feel like writing). I am sorry I did not answer
before this.

I thought father would have been over before, and then
I waited but he did not come, so I thought I’d let you hear
from me. I sent you a letter, and got yours the next day.
I found Miss Sarah, she says she would like to have seen you.

You must not think hard of me this time, and I will try
not to keep you waiting so long again. We had a sprinkle of
rain this evening and a beautiful rainbow.

I suppose you have heard of the insurrection at Harper’s
Ferry. John Brown is to be hung Friday, and I sincerely
hope there will be no more fuss like this.

I have had a great many dreams about you all lately,
and I begin to think there is something to matter with you.

But I must excuse vou because you all are so scarce
with paper, pen and ink. Give my best respects to Mrs.
Thompson and all her children. It is getting toward bed
time, so I must bring mv letter to a close. Give mv love to
all inquiring friends, from

Your affectionate daughter,

Sarah Miranda Plummer.

P. S. Write soon.

Here is a copy of a “Quarterly Ticket” — 18;*>0:

Emily Plummer, member, African Methodist Episcopal
Church. “Be thou faithful until death, and I will give thee
a crown of life.” Rev. II, 10.

44 1

441

“In that eternal day.

No clouds or tempests rise.

There, gushing tears are wiped away
Forever, from our eyes.”

John J. Herbert, Minister.
‘Punctually attend class and public worship.”

‘Read the Scriptures — regularly contribute.”

“The Supper of the Lord.”

‘Family and private prayer.”

(Mr. (i i 1 1 is, the father of the late Sarah Emma Gillis-IIall,
was mother’s class leader. Her beloved son. Ulyses Winfield
Hall, has just died (2-10-1022). How mother, as do we all,
loved that family).

441?.

. '•••'' <

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

This comfort from her minister did not come any too
soon, for she would soon need to have her “gushing tears
wiped away.” Since little Margaret came in 1854, mother had
lost several children at birth from over work, strain, care and

‘ V ' A

ISSggjB

OLD CALVERT MANSION, RIVERDALE, MD.

anxiety. From the time John Brown was hung, December 2,
1859, there was terrible unrest. The masters didn’t know
whether to sell their slaves or keep them. Then when the
Immortal Abraham Lincoln was elected in November, I860,
there was a mad rush to sell all slaves as far South as possible?

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER VI
THE TWINS

On May 11, 1800, father wrote mother a letter saying he
had not heard from tier since Christmas. That he had writ¬
ten tier in February in the care of Mrs. Sarali J. Nicholson,
but had received no answer. Mrs. Nicholson was the new
seamstress, and a better white friend mother never had.
From then on she did all the reading and writing for mother.
All our family loved her dearly until her death. This is
father’s record: “Death of Sarah Nicholson (mother’s
friend” of Ellicott City, Md.), at Washington, 1). C., on Feb¬
ruary 2, 1887.” In the letter of May 11, he also stated lie had
received a letter from Miss Miranda. 181) Green Street, George¬
town, I). C. She was well. Said he expected to come to see
them May 20th. “Tell Saunders and Margaret I am coming
to see them.”

On September 7, 18(H), Mrs. Nicholson wrote the follow¬
ing letter to father for mother:

My dear Husband:

Woodlawn,

Ellicott City, Howard Co., Md.,

September 7, I860.

I have not received a letter from you since yon went
home. Whether you wrote or not, 1 do not know. Please
write and let me hear from you. As for myself I am very
poorly. 1 he children are all well. Let me know how mv
hoy, Elias, is. Miranda says she and mother are coming up
this month. Please write as soon as you receive this. The
children all send their love to you and want to see you, from

Your wife,

Emily Plummer.

On September 18th, eleven days later, Mrs. Nicholson
wrote the following letter to father:

My dear Husband:

I received your kind letter, and was very much obliged
to you for what you sent me.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

The Friday night, September 7, 1860, after I wrote you
I was confined with two babies, one is a boy and one is a
girl. Everybody that has seen them says they are the finest
children they ever saw.

When mother came and saw them she was delighted.
Of course I am disappointed because Miranda didn't come
with mother. I am as well as can be expected. The children
are well and join me in love to you. From

Your wife,

Emily Plummer.

My dear Father:

136 Green Street,
Georgetown, D. C.
September 19, 1860.

I will write to you this morning in baste to say I started
to see mother last Saturday, and could not pass in the cars
because the pass bad to be signed by someone that the agent
knew. Grandmother got hers signed and went off, but I
bad to come back home, again. I expect to go up on Satur¬
day next, if nothing happens.

I would like to see you very much before I go, but I
don’t know bow that will be, unless you think I could get on
♦be cars at Bladensburg with the pass. If you think I can
do that, I will come down.

I hope you will answer this as soon as you get it, if you
don’t, I will not know what to do. If you think I can’t go,
send me mother’s frock by the milk man, and l will get it at
Aim tv’s.

Nothing more at present. Good-bye from

Your affectionate daughter,

Sarah Miranda Plummer.

Rut fate bad decreed that Miranda was not to sec her
mother again for six years and one month from the dale of
her letter. How glad we are that mother lived through all
that grief, and did see her child again.

Miranda was so disappointed at not being able to visit
mother that she cried all the way to Georgetown. Of course
she walked over, and as she turned New Jersey Avenue into

Uiw i luifi ,ui.rf

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Massachusetts Avenue, just where our beloved Brother How¬
ard’s residence is, a white lady said to her, O little girl, what
is the matter? Miranda replied: “I am not crying about you,
I am crying for my mother!”

To go back to September 8th, the morning after the
twins came: Henry had to sleep on a pallet on the ball floor
in the great house, so as to be convenient should be be needed
in the night. It was he who had gone on horse back to the
village for Lila Brown, the nurse, who assisted the stork.
Just before breakfast mother heard him crying and sobbing
as if his heart would break. She raised the window, and
called out as best she could: “Run, Henry, run! Don’t let
him kill you.” This she said, thinking Col. Thompson was
beating Henry. She sent word to Henry to come to her.
When he came, she said: “Henry, my son. what is the matter?”
He couldn’t speak for awhile for sobbing. When he did
speak, he said: “Mother, you can’t take care of the children
you have, and now you’ve gone and not two more!” ending
in loud lamentations. Thus this boy of 16 was farther sighted
than his parents. However, she took courage and said:
“Never mind. son. something tells me that these two children
will never have to suffer as we have. This boy is going to be
a doctor, and the girl is going to be a school teacher.”
“Thoughts are things.” That seemed to calm him and he
went on back to work at the great house. Mother named the
boy Robert (for her brother). Francis (father’s middle name).
The girl they called Nellie Arnold, for her grandmother. Mi¬
randa was to have come up to visit her mother with her
grandmother. Why she did not, was not then known. She
had been sent for. to leave Rev. Clark’s house to call at a
certain place, as Washington Hillearv had a message for her.
She never went back. But was taken instead to Levi Hur¬
dle’s slave pen in Alexandria. Ya„ kept there two months, and
sold to Hanson Kelley of New Orleans.

When the twins were 6 weeks old, the awful news that
Miranda had been betraved, and taken to Alexandria came
to mother, she vowed in her anguish after 10 years watchful
care and prayer for the two children the Ililleary’s kept, that
she would not cook another meal. That she was going out
to oflcr one praver for her children and then die! So she
deserted the babies of whom she was so proud, grieving for
her firstborn.

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

When Henry came down to see her that night before
going to his pallet, he could find mother no where. The
babies were crving so bitterly, “Finnat. finnat.” cried the
girl. “Where-at, where-at,” cried the boy, that Henry called
out, “Mother, mother, why don’t you come! The babies are
crying!’ He knew where the spot was up in the wood where
she often went to pray. He went there. There she was.
He plead with her to come back. “No,” she said, “I mean to
die, I can’t stand the anguish.” The boy then went up close
to her, and, laying his hand on her shoulder, he said: “Mother,
the babies are crying. Go back to them, and if “Sister”
(meaning Miranda), is on the top of ground, I’ll find her and
bring her back to you.” God caused her to relent, and she
went back to the babies in faith that God would bring her
back. For six years from that very time, she mourned and
groaned and prayed that she might hear from her child again
and see her face to face. Rut Miranda’s first letter back home
will explain better than I can what had taken place; also Rev.
Clarks letters:

Sarah (). Hillearv died Sunday night, August 31, 1851.
When her will was read, it ordered Adam and Emily Plum¬
mer’s eldest child, Sarah Miranda, to go to Mary Truman
Hillearv, the daughter of her brother, Washington. They
lived i n Randolph Co., Ya. Mary Truman died during her
minority.

Dr. Henson Penn, named in the will as guardian, remained
so until March 20, 1859, when he died. Hence Washington
Hillearv came in possession of Miranda, whom he sold in
the fall of I860.

Father, mother, and Rev. Clark did all they could to se¬
cure a Maryland, or near-by purchaser, but failed.

Dear Reader: Please excuse this reference. Just sixty
(60) short years ago tonight (Saturday, December 25, 1920,
8 p. ni.), ten millions of slaves were groaning under their hard
taskmasters. Sixty years ago tonight, Adam and Emily Plum¬
mer were with their little family (Henry, Julia, Saunders,
Margaret, and the twins, a little more than 3 months old),
trying to say: “Ii is the Cord, let Him do what seemeth Him
good!” but could not, because Miranda their beloved firstborn
had been decoyed and sold! They knew not where! As I
write this story, realizing as I do what anguish and hardships
we, Robert and Nellie, have been spared, I am made to ex-

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

claim: “O, what shall I render unto the Lord for all His bene¬
fits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call
upon the name of the Lord.”

Before enjoying our Christmas dinner today, as has been
our custom, we laid wreaths of evergreen on the graves of
those who sacrificed so much that we might enter into the joy

GRANDMA—

NELLIE ORME-SAUNDERS-ARNOLD

that is ours today, and not ours only, hut twelve million others.

Sunday, December 26, 1920. — The following program
was witnessed hv the daughter (Nellie), grand-daughter
(Margaret’s daughter and my namesake), Mrs. Nellie Plum¬
mer Moss and daughters, Louise and Harriette, and two great-
grand-daughters of Adam and Emily Plummer. Do you
wonder that my grateful heart soared above and far beyond
their grandest Hosannas and loudest swells of the Hallelujah
Chorus, with Braxton at the organ? I thought how different
was the scene just 60 years ago! It was at Union Bethel
(now Metropolitan A. M. E. Church, M Street, near loth),
that my father and my mother had worshipped since 1851.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

There that Saunders and Margaret were christened by Bishop
Wavinaii. I heard notes that no one else heard — “Victory
Notes” — wafted by the spirits of my parents, who have, indeed,
overcome by the blood of the Lord! Mr. Stanley Brooks is
the grand nephew of Emily Plummer.

A CHRISTMAS SONG SERVICE

AT METROPOLITAN A. M. E. CHURCH
M Street, between 15th and 16th Streets N. \V.

SUNDAY EVE., DECEMBER 26th at 8

Organ Voluntary _ Win. G. Braxton

Processional Hymn, Joy to the World _ Congregation

Invocation _ Pastor

Chorus _ Choir

Calm on the Listening Ear of Night _ Mannev

M iss Maud Smothers

Thus Saitli the Lord _ Messiah

Mr. Frank Harrison

Mv Redeemer and Mv Lord _ Dudley Buck

Mrs. Bessie Kemp

Cantiquede Noel _ Adam

Mr. Stanley Brooks

Organ Solo _ _ Wm. G. Braxton

Hear Ye Israel _ _ Eligali

Miss R. Arliner Young

Comfort Ye My People _ Messiah

Mr. Bush Hunter

Solo, Selected . . . . . Miss Alberta Williams

Piano Solo, Deep River . . . . Burleigh

Mrs. Areminta Anthony

Solo, Selected . . . . Dr. C. Sumner Wormley

Hallelujah Chorus . . . . . . . Choir

Recessional

Benediction

Dr. C. M. Tanner,

Pastor.

Mrs. C. West-Shadd,
Chairman.

'f ■'

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

SILVER OFFERING

Before presenting Miranda’s first letter from New Or¬
leans, we will give Rev. Clark’s letters, with whom she lived
in Georgetown, I). C., that you may know what was done to
save her from being sold South.

If this Methodist minister cared so much, what must have
been the efforts, the care, the anguish, and the despair of her
father and mother? In this hitter hit of history, I can see the
Hand of God!

No. 130 Green Street,

“Pilgrims’ Rest,”
Georgetown, D. C.

October 20, 1800.

Emily Plummer:

Your note is at hand. Miranda is at Upper Marlboro. I
have also, this moment, a note from Mr. Baily A. Shumate,
the administrator in her case, stating that a note from me.
stating her character, he will be able to get her a good home
in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

I have just written and given her the best of character,
and she is worthy of it. she is a good girl, and had I been in
want of another, 1 should never have let her go.

1 think the Court was to have been in cession this week.
I will let you know what is done in her case, as soon as 1
shall hear.

Yours,

In haste.

(Rev.) Samuel Clark.

Georgetown, 1). C.
Sunday, October 28, 1800.

Emilv Plummer:

I wrote you a letter on Friday, stating that Miranda was
in l pper Marlboro, and that Mr. Baily A. Shumate, in whose
hands, requested me to drop him a line, under my signature,
as to her character, and he thought he could get her a good
home in Prince George's County, or in the District of Co¬
lumbia. I did so. Miranda's grandmother has just left my
house. She tells me that he, Miranda's father, heard nothing

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

of it until Mr. Carlton sent him word Friday night or last
night.

I wrote you an answer last Friday to yours.

I think li your mistress, Mrs. Thompson, or her brother,
can do anything to iind her a place near you, they better at¬
tend to it at once. Miranda is honest, industrious, kind, and
good-natured to children, and one in which they delight.
Mr. Cariton’s little children, when they heard she was gone,
had a hearty cry.

She can he left in charge of the house, in the absence
of the family. 1 have tried her.

If Mr. Shumate has not, he will no doubt, sell her next
week. No time is to be lost, if vour friends can do anything
for her. She cannot be beaten as a good housekeeper or ser¬
vant.

In haste, yours,

Let me hear from you.

(Rev.) Samuel Clark.

13G Green Street,
Georgetown, 1). C.

November 10, 1800.

Mrs. Mary Ann Thompson:

I have, this morning, learned from one that knows, and
just from Marlboro, that Miranda is sold, to a Mr. Sheckells
in Washington, who is a trader, or who purchases for traders,
that he gave a thousand dollars for her, and that she is in
Alexandria, at this time, 1 suppose in the jail, and will be
sent South, at what time I know not. 1 am also informed
that Mr. Sheckells, in order to save her from the South, will
let her go to any friend, that will give him a small advance.

I think her mother ought to know where she is, if she
does not. I have taken the liberty to ask you to communi¬
cate this to her in any way you may think best.

Myself and family feel this very painfully. I would go
and see her, hut my feelings, and hers, will not permit me.
1 know I should weep as a child to see her.

I am yours, most respectfully, etc.,

(Rev.) Samuel Clark.

X. R. 1 did all I could for her.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Miranda’s iirst letter from New Orleans:

New Orleans, La.

May 24, 1861.

Dear Mother:

I have been a long time from Georgetown. I suppose
you have had so many letters to read you would not care about
hearing from me.

I write with much grief to say that I was in Alexandria
two months, and could not hear from any of you.

Jackson Ogle went to Washington every three weeks to
see his wife. He saw my grandmother, and of course she
knew where I was. I hope you won't think hard of my
scolding for this is not half I have felt.

I do not blame you, because you could not come to see
me, but I think it very hard that father did not come, as he
was nearer than you were.

Though I may hear from you yet, I never expect to see
you again. Please write to grandmother, give her my love,
and tell her I am sorry 1 did not come to see her when I
went to show my aunt where she lived.

Tell her I hope she will still have redemption through

God.

I have been very low spirited since I left you all, hut I
will try to do the best I can. I hope you won’t forget that I
am still alive. 1 send love to you and all my inquiring
friends. Remember me to my brother (Henry), and tell him
I hope he hasn’t forgotten to write to me as he promised to do.

I am writing with much grief. My heart is full of sor¬
row, and I can do no better. 1 hope you will not grieve after
me, but in the good Providence of God, 1 hope we will meet
to part no more.

Though you will be so sorry to hear I am so far away,
vet vou will be glad to hear that I saw mv Aunt Sarah
(mother’s sister who bad been sold. Never heard from till
now). She was so surprised and glad to see me. She did
not know me until I made myself known. She has been
stopping at St. Gharles Hotel. I don’t know whether she
has left there or not. She told me to give her love to sister
Emily and all the children when l wrote.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

I hope you will have a pleasant time over my lelter.
Give my best respects to Mrs. Thompson and her children.

I suppose you will answer my letter as soon as you can,
because I want to hear from you as bad as you do from me.

I remain as ever,

Your affectionate daughter,

Sarah Miranda Plummer.

P. S. Direct your letter to M. Plummer, New Orleans, care
of Hanson Kelley.

Here was love and grief beyond degree for human hearts.
What joy for mother to hear from her child! What grief
was the thought of never seeing her again!

HOME OF ADAM FRANCIS PLUMMER
(Riverdale, Md., — 1841-1870)

Where St. Paul’s Baptist Church was Born, October 19, 1866.
Sketched by Dr. H. V. Plummer, son of Rev. Elias Q. Plummer.

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Riverdale, Prince Geo. Co., Md.,

August 11, 1861.

For Emily Plummer at

Woocliawn, Eiiieotts City,

Howard county, Mtl.

My dear Wile:

1 take tins opportunity of writing you a few lines today,
to imorm you tiuu 1 am not so well today myself, but 1 hope
by the blessings of God, these few lines may find you and all
tne children well. All are well at Riverdale. Your mother
is well and sends her love to all.

1 expect or wish to come up to see you on the 24th of
August, a. m. You please look lor me in tiie morning.

Your son, Elias Plummer, is well. 1 have nothing more
to sav, Goodbve till then.

Your alfectionate Husband,

Adam Plummer.

This letter was not received by mother until Tuesday
morning, August 20, 1861, just the letter she was praying for.

N. A. P.

Woodlawn, Eiiieotts City,

Howard County, Md.

Monday, August 10, 1861.

My ever dear Husband:

I have been hoping each day to hear from you. as you
may imagine it gives me intense pleasure to hear of your
welfare and happiness.

Your inquiring as to the proper address for Miranda’s
letters should have been sent, but you cannot send any letters
South. I have had one written to her. and for two months
watched in vain for an opportunity to send the letter. Her
address is to the care of Hanson Kelly, New Orleans, La.

We are all well. The babies grow and improve rapidly.
They can almost walk. And Papa, Saunders is not with me,
he is hired to Miss Eliza Dorsey, as house servant, is doing
very well, and is much belter satisfied. He and all the chil¬
dren are so anxious to see you, they send all their love.

Rut what shall l say of myself, my dear husband? I
think each day 1 cannot longer wait for a visit from you.
My heart aches at the thought of this long and painful sepa¬
ration. I do pray to God for patience to hear my trials, lie
only knows how hard 1 struggle with myself for my little

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

/ /

children's sake. I dream of you and think von are once more
with me, hut wake to find myself alone and so wretchedly
unhappy.

Could, you come up early some Sunday morning to
breakfast? I have flattered myself you thought of doing
some such thing. 0 what joy it would bring to the almost
broken heart of your poor wife and family! Do try this
plan, my dear husband, and let us hear from you soon, that
vou will come, hut under anv circumstances write very Ire-
quently, it is our next great pleasure to seeing your kind face,
and hearing vour voice of affection.

William and Clarice send their best love, each and all
want to see you.

God bless and speedily reunite us, ever prays.

Your truly affectionate wife,

Emily Plummer.

P. S. Tuesday morning, I have just received your letter, and
cannot resist adding a lino to say, I am so thankful for your
letter, and the good news it brings me. (), do not disappoint
us. 0, my dear husband! 1 am so thankful! Mv heart re-
joiccs! We will expect and watch until Saturday morning!
May God hear our prayers!

Believe me till death,

Your devoted wife,

Emily Plummer.

To Adam Plummer.

Just think how relieved mother and father would have
been could they have read the newspapers, or attended anti-
slavery meetings! What if they could have known that the
South had fired on Fort Sumter, the April before this letter
was written, and that slave men would he free soon, and
given arms with which to call their masters to order?

What, I repeat, could they have known that God had
prepared Abraham Lincoln to strike the dragon, slavery, a
death blow! Father did hear from the Calverts what a
dreadful mistake the South had made in firing on the Gov¬
ernment at Fort Sumter, S. C. But it was impossible for
them to realize the “Good Times,” that were so near! But
they kept on repeating and singing: “0 God, our help in ages
past. Our hope for years to come. Our shelter from a stormy
blast, And our eternal home!”

God moves in a mysterious way, Ilis wonders to perform.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

He plants his footsteps in the sea. And rides upon the storm.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; The clouds ye so much

dread Are big with merev, and shall break In blessings on vour
head.”

“1

How can I sink with such a prop As our eternal God,
Who bore the earth’s huge pillars up, And spread the heavens
abroad? How can I die while Jesus lives. Who rose and left
the dead? Pardon and grace my soul receives From His ex¬
alted head!”

From the time that letter of May 24, 1861, was received,
there was intercession, night and day, with every breath, for
the return of their firstborn, especially was this true of mother.
Henry’s voice kept ringing in her ears: “If sister is above the
ground. I’ll line! her and bring her back to you!” Rut what
could he, a slave boy of 17 years do? “Don’t stop praying!
the Lord is nigh: Don’t stop praying! He’ll hear your cry,
God has promised and He is true, don't stop praying! He’ll an¬
swer you.”

Rut what is the matter at the great house? Silence seems
to reign there. The servants no more hear the ring of the
piano, nor their mistress’ voice singing, “Oh, dear, what can
the matter be? Johnny’s so long at the Fair. He promised
to bring me a bunch of blue ribbon to tie up my bonny brown
hair.” There had been born to Col. and Mrs. Thompson
four sons and two daughters — Dorsey, Ned, Livingston, Bob,
Rebecca and Lillie. These children of ease and plenty never
knew a care. Every wish was gratified. Their grandfather,
the late Judge Dorsey, had richly remembered his daughter,
Marv Ann. Rut why this dread silence! The servants did
not know for weeks, even months!

At last l lie silence is broken! These favored sons were
drafted, and must go to defend an already lost cause — slavery
and States’ rights!

Rut the servants kept singing: “Don't stop praying when
bowed with grief; Don’t stop praying! you'll get relief:
Troubles never escape God's sight; Don't stop praying! He'll
make it right.”

Letter after letter comes to Mrs. Thompson from her
boys. Still all seemed sad and wrong. Seldom far between
came letters to mother from her husband, her mother, or her
two absent children.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

THE SHOE OX THE OTHER FOOT

Late in 18()2, a letter came stating Livingston Thompson
had been killed and Ned was severely wounded, Dorsev and
Bob were prisoners. The mistress could hold up no longer,
but sought her cook, Emily, and failing on her neck, she wept
as only mothers weep for their firstborn, and said: “Now,
Emily, I can sympathize with you, when they sold your
mother and Miranda. I couldn’t sympathize with you be¬
fore!” And Emily wept, too, for Livingston’s mother. But
having that faith in God which was strengthened by adver¬
sity, she kept singing: “Don’t stop praying but have more
trust; Don’t stop praying, for pray we must; Faith will banish
a mount of care; Don’t stop praying! God answers prayer!”

Mrs. Rebecca Goodwin Thompson Rogers was the eldest
daughter of Col. and Mary Ann Dorsey-Thompson.

OBITUARIES

Mrs. John G. Rogers

Tuesday, February 15, 1921.- — Mrs. Rebecca Goodwin
Rogers, wife of former Judge John G. Rogers, and a well-
known resident of Howard County, died on Tuesday last at her
home “Woodlawn.” She had been in had health for several
years.

Mrs. Rogers was born at Meridian Hill, Washington, and
was the daughter of the late Col. G. Livingston and Mary Ann
Tolly Thompson of this county, and granddaughter of the
late Chief Justice Thomas B. Dorsey of the Maryland Court
of Appeals and of Smith Thompson, an Associate Justice on
the bench of the Supreme Court of the United States, who
was also secretary of the United States Navy under President
Monroe.

Besides her husband she is survived by three daughters
and two sons, Mrs. Jacob Baer. Mrs. Edward M. Hammond,
Miss Leila Rogers, John G„ Jr., and Reuben 1). Rogers, and
one brother, R. Dorsey Thompson all of Howard County.
Her funeral took place from St. John's P. 1C. Church, on
Thursday afternoon, services were conducted by the Rev. Dr.
Edward T. Helfenstein.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The pallbearers were Messrs. Daniel M. Murray, Hugh
T. Harrison, Arthur L. Thompson, Dorsey Rogers, E. Nelson
Dugan, and Ligon Thompson. Burial was in St. John’s Cem¬
etery.

MRS. ROGERS DIES

Wife of Former Judge in Maryland;- Horn in I). C.

Mrs. Rebeeca Goodwin Rogers, wife of former Judge
John G. Rogers of the fifth Maryland judicial district, died
Tuesday afternoon at her home near Ellicott City, Md. She
had been ill for several months.

The bagjthat brought food and clothing to sustain Mother and the older children,
while they worked for the white man who fed and clothed them so scantily. F rom
Riverdale to Meridian Mill. D. C.. — 1851-1855. Then to Ellicott City. Moward Co.,
Md.. — 1855-1863. Dear Father did it, often walking miles.

Mrs. Rogers was horn in this city on Meridian Hill, the
daughter of the late Col. G. Livingston and Mary Ann Tolley
Thompson. She was the granddaughter of the late Chief
Justice Thomas R. Dorsey of the Maryland Court of Appeals,
and of Smith Thompson, who was Secretary of the Navy dur¬
ing President Monroe’s administration.

She is survived by her husband, two sons, Reuben and
John G. Rogers, Jr., and three daughters, Mrs. Edward M.
Hammond, Mrs. Jacob S. Baer, and Miss Delia L. Rogers, all
of Howard County, Md. A brother, R. Dorsey Thompson
also survives.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

From this time on event after event occurred in rapid
succession.

The success of the Republicans in 1800 gave the South
the excuse for starting the Civil War, which lasted four years,
and resulted in the preservation of the Union and the abolition
of the demon, slavery!

Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will
toward men.

Slavery in the District of Columbia was abolished on
April 10, 1802. by the payment of $098,100.3;"). Thus many
slaves from Maryland and Virginia flocked to the District.

On January 1, 1803. followed that immortal document,
known as the Emancination Proclamation, issued by the Im¬
mortal Lincoln. See Part Second.

“All glory and praise fo Jesus give for His redeeming
grace!” sang every Negro heart. Poor mother was so far
a wav. flow was she to get to Riverdale to father with her
six children and all her belongings? Father had brought her
man v things since she became a part of the Thompson family.
Brother Henry helped mother to pack, and carried their things
to the home of a free man and his wife, named Richard and
Airv Neal, who kept them faithfully until father could go for
them.

Ilcnrv left Woodlawn before January 1, 1803. reached
father at Riverdale. but could not stay for Maryland had not
seceded. He went Jo Washington where Aunt Margaret Tvler

o »

kept him until he joined the IJ. S. Navy.

Mother made several attempts to reach Baltimore where
she hoped to he sheltered with friends until father could come
for her and the children. These attempts failed until October
8. 1803. when she finally got away at night. She thus left
Woodlawn forever. (When her friends visited Washington,
they called on her at Ilyaltsvillc.)

When the sun rose the next morning, Emilv Plummer
and five children were in Baltimore, hut not in the home of
her friends as she had hoped. Twice she had been halted
by the Union soldiers -“Who comes there?" She replied:
“Friend of l lie guard.” The soldier replied: “Friend of the
guard, advance.” This mother said, having been instructed
to do so.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Messrs. Elias and Jesse Neal were to have escorted us to
Baltimore. Something hindered. The next week mother
started without a guide. Meeting a man and woman (with
a baby), she trusted them to show her the nearest way. But
alas!

Mr. Jesse Neal, who died March 11, 1891, was the hus¬
band of Mrs. Amanda Dorsey-Xeal of 1633 P Street N. AY.,
Washington, D. C. Their children were Messrs. John and
Ringgold Neal, and Mrs. Mattie Neal-Costin. With them
Miss Susan Howard Dorsey, Mrs. Neal’s sister. It would be
hard for you to find another such a happy family. For more
than fifty-one years they have loved and respected each other,
to my knowledge.

When the summons came (as come it must to us all),
to Miss Susan, on Tuesday, September 9, 1921, at 1:80 a. m.,
our first thought was for her older sister, Mrs. Neal.

On the day of the funeral, as she was taking the last look
at their home, just two words, “O, Queen!” showed the trust,
confidence, and love that existed between them, for “Miss
Sue” bad not only been a queen in her home, but to all of her
acquaintances. 1 never witnessed any scene any more sol¬
emnly grand than that presented by the “Eastern Star Im¬
mediate Aid,” and all else pertaining to her obsequies. On
Sunday, February 1 1, 1920, at Parkersburg, W. Ya., her
brother. Win. H. Dorsey, followed her, and yet. Mrs. Neal,
being blessed with a loving, faithful daughter, is heard to
exclaim: “Bless the Lord, O, my soul, and forget not all his
benefits !”

Father, innocent of what had happened to us, learned
of our predicament through Mrs. Ann Dove Young, a strong
Southern sympathizer, but was extremely kind to father, by
buying anything he had tor sale. She saw the advertisement,
and asked father if it didn’t mean his family. Mr. Calvert
gave him permission to go to Baltimore to see. Hence the
Warden’s pass.

Baltimore, November Hi, 1863.

Warden of the Jail: Admit bearer, colored, to see his
family at any time.

•r *

Ed. Z. Mioinsy.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Being misled and robbed of $5.00 and a bundle of cloth¬
ing by the colored man who pretended lie knew the way,
she was led far out of the wav. She and the children were
put in jail as runaways. In jail! O horrors! But mother
was happy, except for the thought of being returned to her
cruel master for worse treatment. All she wanted was to
get word to father to come. All her children were with her
except Miranda, Henry, and Elias. Rut they were safe from
Col. Thompson, who came just before we were to be released.
When mother was called before him, lie said: “This is a
pretty way for you to behave, as kind as Mrs. Thompson has
been to you! I have a great mind to have you tied up and
give you nine-and-thirty !” Just then Judge Pacey, a jail
official, said to Col. Thompson: “There is no law by which
you can whip a slave here, sir.” This he said to reassure
mother that she was safe from Thompson’s attack. It hap¬
pened that he had no money to pay for us, the Dorsey's re¬
fusing to loan him. Thus we escaped “the stones that were
in his hands, and the murder that was in his heart” toward the
defenseless. He could not vent his spite against a helpless
woman and live children.

No young woman of today can imagine the bravery that
it took on mother’s part to venture to Baltimore alone, as it
were, through troops of soldiers, during war time, with a
girl of 11 years and a boy of 12, a girl 9 years, and two babies

to be carried. Rut love knows no fear. We still think she
was a heroine, indeed! Freedom was in sight! Although
Henry (P) years), was all the help she had, she urged him
to seek his freedom.

The jailer’s wife soon found that Emily was an excel¬
lent cook. In this way she served them two months, paying
for the board and keep of herself and children.

The following paper, given to father when he came for
us is rather interesting, being dated nearly a year after the
Emancipation Proclamation was issued:

“In Baltimore City Orphans’ Court,

December 9, 1863.

Whereas, certain colored persons calling themselves, re¬
spectively Emma Blumbe (Emily Plummer), Julia Blumbe,
Sunderson (Saunders), Blumbe, Maggie Blumbe, Francis

■

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Blumbe, and Ella Blumbe, were committed to the Baltimore
City Jail as runaways, and dulv advertised, and the owner or
owners, if any, not having in compliance witli Article 66, Sec.
7 of the Maryland Code, applied for such alleged runaways
within sixty days from tiie ninth of October, 1863, the time
of such advertisement, and the said parties having this day
been brought before the Orphans’ Court for Baltimore City,
I, I. Spear Smith, Chief Judge of said Court, order and decree,
by virtue of Article 66, Section 8. of the Maryland Code, that
said parties be forthwith discharged from custody.

I. Spear Smith.

State of Maryland.

Baltimore City, Set.

I hereby certify that the Honorable I. Spear Smith, by
whom the above order was signed, was at the time of signing
the same. Chief Judge of the Orphans' Court for Baltimore
City, duly appointed, commissioned, and qualified.

In testimony whereof, I hereunto subscribe mv name and

*■ %

afTix the Seal of the said Court this ninth day of December,
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and six¬
ty-three.

Test: Isaac P. Cook, Registrar of Wills for Baltimore
City.”

“Going HOME with ‘Plummer’ and my children,” thought
mother, that happy day! And the B. A 6. train didn’t move
fast enough, that was to take them to Bladensburg station,
just fit teen minutes walk to their home on the Riverdale
plantation !

Imagine, if you can, the great joy, mingled with grati¬
tude to Almighty God. that filled the breasts of that entire
family, when they awoke next morning, December 10, 1863!
Not h) hear old “Tex” (Col. Thompson), calling, cursing, and
raging long before day-light! On an opposite hill to Wood-
lawn, Ellicott City, Howard County. Maryland, lived Judge
Pitt, rhey were a northern famiiv seeking health on the
bills of Maryland. It is said they suffered more than the
slaves in a sense, to see the cruelties practiced on little chil-

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

dren. Col. Thompson would have lilllc girls 8 to 12 years
old using the cross-cut saw, clearing his lawn and making
fire wood. It is said Judge Pitt encouraged the slaves to be
patient, as a great change would soon come. Had lie lifted
his voice openly, he would have been made to leave at once.
Now, all that is past forever! Mother was free to prepare
breakfast for her faithful husband and five children! After
twelve years’ absence from “‘Three Sisters,” her bithplace,
twelve years of torture, knowing not what tomorrow would
bring forth, our brave, faithful, steadfast, loving, and pious
mother was supremely happy — all save the thoughts of the
three absent ones — Miranda, Henry, and Elias, the three eld¬
est. She expected Henry and Elias home real soon — but
Miranda, Miranda. Miranda, way off in New Orleans! “United,
though separated,” she said.

“Blest be the dear uniting love.
That will not let us part;
Our bodies mav far off remove,
We still are one in heart!”

I imagine I can see her sweeping the floors, the porch,
and the yard, singing as never before! O what a change!
Home at Riverdale where she first saw the man who was to
be to her all-in-all.

A brick mansion (still occupied) had recently been built
quite near and opposite the Bladensburg station on the B.
& O. R. R. It was the only one near except the (advert man¬
sion. This was owned by Mr. (dark Culvert Hyatt, who had
been twice married. His first wife’s children were Messrs.
C. G., Jr., John, and Mrs. Kate Kirby. His second wife was
Miss Fannie Perkins. Her children were Messrs. Frank,
Walter, Charles, and Miss Hattie. Their baby, Albert, I often
see. The Hyatts needed a cook. They sent for mother who
served them three years, from December lf>, 1803, just one
week from the time she arrived home. See father’s diary:
“Emilv Plummer in service at Mr. (dark Hyatts for $8.00
per month, December Hi, 1808. Mr. Culvert Hyatt (son of
C. C. Hyatt), hired Julia Plummer, 1 t years old, December
18, 1808, for $0 per month.

Mr. Clark Hyatt hired Saunders Plummer, 12 years, Feb¬
ruary 1, 1801, for $3 per month.”

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Thus every member of the family had worked at regular
tasks ever since they were 6 years old, but this was the first
wages or compensation received for their labor! Mr. Hyatt
built also a brick village store on the opposite side of the
B. & O. R. R. Both buildings still stand. I always think of
the Calverts and Hyatts as those who helped mother and
father to keep us alive until we were old enough to work for
ourselves.

MOTHER’S. FEATHER. BED.

Little. Henry getting one more nap.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

CHAPTER VII

THE NINETY AND NINE!

Rul what was that ever troublesome something that was
gnawing at their hearts? Were they not free? Hadn’t their
God with 1 1 is own strong arm killed slavery? Were they not
now united, man and wite and children under one roof/
Ah! it was for Miranda they prayed. The Ninety and Nine—
“There were ninety and nine that sately lay In the shelter ot
the fold. Rut one was out on the hills away. Far oil irom the
(rates of (Told, A wav on the mountains wild and hare. Away

« i r> *

from the tender Shepherd’s care.

“Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine;

Arc they not enough for thee?’’

But the Shepherd made answer: “’Tis of mine
Has wandered away from me;

And although the road he rough and steep,

I go to the desert to find my sheep.”

But none of the ransomed ever knew

How deep were the waters crossed;

Nor how dark was the night that the Lord passed through
Ere he found his sheep that was lost.

Out in the desert he heard its cry —

Sick and helpless, and ready to die.”

Mr. Calvert had made father foreman at the enormous
sum of SRI per month, with two bushels of corn meal and
four dozen smoked herring, and two sides of bacon as an
allowance. Father raised corn, potatoes, lings, and chickens
for himself. Father’s house was so situated on about four
acres that we believed that Mr. Calvert intended to give him
the house and land as a start in life. lie told father that he
had a plan in mind that would help him get a start, a reward
for father’s faithfulness. Think of it. a strong able-bodied
man, most trust-worthy, being paid his FIRST wages of 810
when he is 1 1 vears old!

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CALVERT’S DEATH

But the time was fast approaching when the two boy¬
hood chums must separate. On May 21, 1801, Mr. Calvert
went over the farm on horseback as was his custom. He was
stricken with apoplexy and died soon after being carried into
the house. That was the darkest day Riverdale ever knew.
The colored people mourned his loss even more than his soils
and wife. They considered him a protector as well as former
master. No one dared touch one of his people from the least
to the greatest.

Now many of the servants must find new homes and em¬
ployment. Calvert’s older sons, George H. and Chas. B., Jr.,
rallied and ran the farm much as it had been for manv vears.

to ^

In order to keep father they raised his wages to the enor¬
mous sum of $15 per month, giving the other hands 810.
Among these servants were George Kent (and his good wife,
Martha, “Cousin Martha,’’ we called her), Matt. Robinson,
Chas. Allen, Julius Lee, George Gilbert, with their wives;
Julia Ann Brown. Geo. Price, Ann Dotson, the Becketts, John
Brown, Carrolls, Lorenzo, and Fannie Scott. Tarlton Brown.
Philip Brashears. Jane Gutrich, Daniel and Harriet Beckett,
the Garricks, Win. and Lucy Scott, Uriah, Margaret, and
Sylvia Wallace, Josiah Adams, William Norris. Josiah John¬
son, Sandy Speaks, and many others.

That which was uppermost in the mind of father and
mother was to send to New Orleans for Miranda. Father
worked late and early, after daily task was done, raised
chickens, hogs, small fruits, vegetables, etc., which he sold.
Mother did all that willing hands could do after her daily
task at Mrs. Hyatts was done. On May 2, 1802. Elias rail
away from “Three Sisters’’ and went to Washington.

If a s,Iave C0l,ld only reach the District Line, he was
levy-free. Could not he taken unless deceived, by being
led into Maryland or Virginia. So Mrs. Margaret A. K?
Tyler, his aunt, hid him as it were. Once she was induced
lo ride to her destination. She soon discovered she was be¬
ing taken out of the District. She escaped hv smashing the
windows and screaming for help!

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

TYLER. In sad hut loving remembrance of my dear
mother, MARGARET A. E. TYLER, who entered into eternal
rest thirty-five years aim today, July 2t>, 1892.

Davs of sadness still come o’er me.

Secret tears do often flow.

But memory of you keeps you near me.

Though heaven claimed you thirty-five years ago.

HER DAUGHTER. SARA TYLER-SMITII.

The above shows that kindness and good deeds never die.
Because Mrs. Tyler helped others, she is not forgotten by a
fond and loving daughter.

O D

Her Henry had enlisted in the Navy. If she could only
get Miranda! Her constant prayer was that she might see
her child again. She kept singing: “Help us to help each
other. Lord — each others cross to hear — and each a friendly
aid afford — and feel a brother’s care.”

She wondered if her friends would loan her the money to
send for Miranda to come home. But why doesn’t she receive
letters from New Orleans? Is Miranda dead? It was then
learned that the smallpox was raging in New Orleans. Can it
be that the terrible plague would rob us of the joy so long
prayed for ?

MRS. HOWARD

In November, of 18(>8, Miranda was married to Thomas
Benjamin Howard for protection, being entirely alone. He
was twice (and more) as old as she. She described him as
being very worldly and wicked so far as religion was con¬
cerned, but he was very good to her. On September 8,
18(il, a little son was horn to them. This was the first
grand child of which father and mother knew nothing —
didn’t know that Miranda was married. In 186f>, the scourge
of smallpox overtook them. Thomas Howard, the husband,
died on June 1st. Miranda had it very slightly. Their little
hoy, Thomas, was laid out for dead, hut survived. This is
why no letters were received, nor sent out, being war time,
also. Any ordinary person would have complained that it
was had enough to he alone, single woman way down in New
Orleans, hut to be a young widow with a little child to care
for, seemed forsaken of the Lord. But not so with Miranda.
She used to go out and watch the stars and wonder if mother

i <3 * v

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

This picture

ADAM F. PLUMMER:

represents Father dressed for Church, or some special

occasion

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

was looking at the same star. One large bright one in par¬
ticular she thought was ihe same one she saw shining over
mother’s cabin at “Three Sisters.” She attended the First
African Raptist Church, became converted and was baptized
in March, 1801, by Rev. Nelson Saunders. So earnestly did
she prav and meditate on the sermons and Scriptures that she
dreamed and walked and talked in the Spirit.

In oilier words, she could, indeed, say: “I walk with the
King, hallelujah, I walk with the King, praise His name! No
longer I roam, mv soul faces home, I walk and I talk with
the King!”

In a dream she was told that her people at home were in
gross darkness and that she must tell them to repent, believe
and be baptized. From that time on she practically knew
that God would send her hack home io do the work. One
of the old ladies who befriended her and her child after the
death of her husband, whom she called “Aunt Dinah,” had a
dream. She said: “lias your mother black wavy hair, and
gray eyes? Is she a tall, well-built mulatto?” She was
told: “Yes.” She said you must write to her. She is in
great trouble about you. Then Miranda told her she had
written and written but could get no answer. She wondered
if father and mother and brother Henry were dead. If not
why didn’t they answer her letters? They didn’t know
everything was quarantined to prevent infection with small¬
pox, yellow fever, and cholera. Rut they never ceased to
pray.

Re it remembered that Miranda’s force of character was
greatly strengthened by living with mother at Mrs. Thomp¬
son’s. Meridian Hill, Washington, D. C., from June 1 1. 18.12
until December 22, 1855, when mother went to Ell ico 1 1 City
with the Thompson’s and Miranda was hired to a Rev. and
Mrs. Clark of Georgetown, until September, 1800.

1 can see now what she must have learned from them

(mother and Rev. Clark), before she was herself converted.

God moves in mvslcrious wavs.

* *

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OK

SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER-IIOWARD’S MEDITA¬
TIONS, 18(?:M8()fi.

“I wonder if mother is looking at that bright star and
longing to see me, as I am longing to see her?”

“I was married to Thomas Benjamin Howard November
2, 1803. Will father and mother he pleased to know I am
married? I have no protector hut my heavenly father, so I
married.”

“Mother and father, I have a little son, horn to us Sep¬
tember 8. 1801. I have written to you so often ! Why you do
not answer my letters. I do not know. Father. I see you often
in mv dreams, you don’t appear to he pleased because I am
married. Mother, my baby reminds me of my brother, Saun¬
ders. He is Thomas Benjamin Howard, Jr.”

June 1, 1805. — Mv husband is dead of smallpox. I think
my son shall soon follow his father, and when God sees fit to
call him home. I shall he left in New Orleans alone with no bus-
band, no child, no father, no mother, no brother, nor sister. I
would be so glad to hear from you. I would jump for joy!
Dear mother, don't grieve after me. I saw my little sister
that died, Marjory Ellen Rozella, in the Spirit. She sang her
little song: “We shall meet to part no more.” Now I believe
we shall meet to part no more. May God grant me that I
may see my family once more on earth. I desire with desire
to see them.”

“I am trying to pray to free mv soul from sadness, which
is Satan’s slavery chain. I was lost hut now I am found, was
blind, hut now can see. Mother, be of good cheer, for I
shall surely see you again. Brother Henry, I see you often
in mv dreams. Write and tell me something good. Please
write !”

“I was first married to man. but I am happy to inform
you that I am now married to Jesus, and never to part. I
have everlasting life in Jesus Christ.”

“My Gospel Mother is ‘Mother’ Ottaway Jackson. Mother
Emily, I meet you sometimes and converse with you about
heaven. If I don’t see mv mother in this world, I know I
will see her in heaven. To my father: ‘If you have not
prayed, you must start now, and pray for salvation, or else
you will be lost. Be in earnest, and God will hear.* ”

)'l iffn

ii! tviirX\\W'tf

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

“I feel very sad since the death of my husband. Do you
think it worth while to come to sec you again? I often tell
the old folks. Aunt Becky and Aunt Dinah, about the fine
fruits and vegetables in your garden. Don’t you fret that I
have forgotten who my father and mother are! I wonder
if mv grandmother is living or dead? I have decided to write
next to Aunt Margaret Tyler in Washington, to see if I can
hear from you. 1 wonder if Aunt Lucy is living?”

“() mother! I can shake hands with you, for I have felt
the pain that you felt for me. 1 have nothing to send you
but my love. We three have to rent a little house. Each
has to pay seven dollars a month. I am not strong like I
was before my baby came.”

“I have never seen Aunt Sally since I wrote you in 18(51.
She told me I had a little brother and sister. Are my little
brother and sister still living? I have never seen them yet.
Do write me, for it is a great comfort to hear from home.”

“I was baptized by Rev. Nelson Saunders, March, 18(51,
and joined the First African Bantist Church of New Orleans.
I shall go to church this morning with delight, and try, bv
the help of God, to hear from home.”

Februarv 2, 18(5(5. — “Thank God, mv little son is better.
Still I feel very anxious. I fear something has happened to
either father or mother.”

“I hear that my Aunt Sallv has died. If she died in
Christ, I shall see her again. If I could only see you for
one minute, father, to tell you how I undergo the burden and
the heat of the day, you would shed tears of joy to see how
God has brought me. I am trying with the help of God to
do the best I can. And when I have done the best I can, God
will do the balance, for 1 am nothing. He is all. I am so
glad to hear my aunt reached home before she died, but you
might know how I feel now that she has left me. How is
my grandmother? Is she living or dead?”

“I should like to come home to see you once more. I
am commanded by an Almighty Power to join the Baptist
Church. And when I have done as He commands. God will
open the way, and I shall see my mother again! How glad I
shall be to see my brother, Henry!”

•' : / i ( * I

. ’

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“Father, while I am gone out to work. Aunt Dinah is
taking care of your lit tie grandson. Roth Aunt Rebecca and
Aunt Dinah are from North (Carolina. I want to send you little
Tom’s photograph. He is very much like brother Saunders.
May God bless von all, and hold vou in the hollow of His
hand, until the storm of the wicked (slavery) is overblown.

1 am still your affectionate daughter,

Sarah Miranda Plummer-IIoward.”

“How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, is laid for
your faith in His excellent word. What more can He say
than to you He hath said, to you who for refuge to Jesus
hath lied.”

“The soul that on Jesus has leaned for repose, I will not,
I will not desert to his foes; that soul, though all hell should
endeavor to shake. I'll never, no never, no never forsake.”

These and dozens of other thoughts, wishes and desires
Miranda has told us again and again!

(X. A. P.)

EVENTS, 18G 1-18GU), IN AND NEAR RIYERDALE

From 1801, father and mother worshipped at Bladens-
burg, Md., instead of Union Bethel, Washington, 1). G. This
they did, trying to save every penny to help bring Miranda
home. Father chose old Macedonia as his church, while
mother chose Dent Chapel. Mother missed few class meet¬
ings and other services except when her duties to those who
hired her prevented. O how fervently they did praise the
Lord for their deliverance from slavery! Had our “Black
Folk” the education, I think they would have written Psalms
that would have far excelled the Jews — “The Psalms of
David.”

The great Civil War is in progress! April, 1805, is fast
approaching! Ahraham Lincoln was assinated! () how the
“Black Folk” mourned. In their sorrow they determined to
“cast all their care on Jesus, and not forget to pray.”

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

No matter what father had to sell, he always found a
ready purchaser in Mrs. Ann Dove Young. Her husband, an
army officer, left her a widow with four small children,
James, Annie, Healy, and Kate. They lived (on a pension
which the mother received), just opposite us to the west
across B. tk O. R. R., across the Baltimore and Washington
Boulevard, adjoining the Bowen-Rose property in what was
called Ellasville. As soon as James Young was old enough,
he entered the army and became the support of his mother
and sisters for vears and years, although thev were demo-
crats, father never had a truer friend. Once when she wanted
to pay him for his vegetables, she said: “Here, Uncle Adam,
take this dollar, I don’t want it. It has old Abe’s head on
it!” That very dollar was later to make the long trip to
New Orleans. Every Christmas he received from her a set
of working shirts and one best shirt, as well as other useful
gifts. On Christmas, 1880, she gave him “A Methodist
Hymnal” (words only, large type), in which she wrote:

Adam Plummer, December 25, 1880. An honest man,
the noblest work of Cod.”

Mrs. Young lived to be more than one hundred years old.
She even survived her beloved “Jimmie.” James Young rose
to the rank of Major Young as a Union Officer. Both he
and his father fought to preserve the Union, even if slavery
had to go. But the women of their family held on to slavery
as “States Rights,” although they owned no slaves.

James Young, her eldest child, who lived to he seventy
years old, never married. Annie, who was a blond, became
Mrs. Sturgeon. Healy became Mrs. Cook. Kate became Mrs.
Omohundro, and a son survives her. Healv and Kate were
brunettes. Mrs. Young survived all of her children except
Mrs. Omohundro.

•ll» -«>/•)•,

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER VIII

! ! ! OCTOBER 19. 1866 ! ! !

When the first anniversary of 1 1 ic death of the then, as
now. Immortal Lincoln, rolled around, though still mourning
his loss, father and mother had resolved to borrow enough
money to add to their little savings to make enough for three
carfares to New Orleans. Although Miranda may have been
sold, no one knows where, since they heard from her, they
could not rest. As the fall work lessened, they decided to
send Henry to see if he could find her. From father's diarv
I read the following: “Julia Ann Brown loaned Adam and
Emily Plummer *21, October 7. 1866. George Price loaned
$10, October 2, Elizabeth Plummer, father's youngest sister,
loaned $5, October 2. Ann Dotson, $5, October 5th. Mr.
Chas. Allen, $20, October 2nd. George Kent. *50. October
9th. C. C. Hyatt loaned $10, October 6th. Making $121
borrowed money. To this they added *129. all they could
possibly make and save making *250. Leaving the fare one
way out, the balance mother sewed up in a pocket of an
under shirt of dark blue flannel (Henry’s Navy suit). Lest
I should forget, let me state that father's journal shows that
by December, 1867, every borrowed dollar had been paid
back, the dates stating when each received his amount. A
lesson that the voting people of this dav and generation could
well profit by— PAY AN HONEST DEBT! After much con¬
sultation and inquiry on Henry's part, it was decided that lie
should go to New Orleans and search for his sister from whom
he had heard nothing for so long. Little did they know that
fierce diseases came so near robbing them of their chief ob¬
ject and desire. That all the pains they had taken to raise
the money might be in vain! But mother kept singing:
“How can I sink with such a prop as our eternal God!"

So, on Thursday morning, October 11, 1866. Henry Vin¬
ton Plummer, aged 22. left for New Orleans, w ith the follow¬
ing directions from father on a piece of white, lined paper
five inches by six inches. Ibis original paper, now sixty

. / J: •

<■ • ’

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

years old, is pasted in father’s diary: “In the year of our
Lord, 186b, October 11, Adam F. Plummer gives his son,
Henry V. Plummer, permission to go to New Orleans, La.,
on Napoleon Avenue, between Fchoupitoulas and Jesey, for
his eldest sister, Sarah Miranda Plummer, Mrs. Sarah Miran¬
da Howard.”

From father’s diary: “Miss Sarah Miranda Plummer,
No. 136 Green St. (Pilgrim’s Rest), Georgetown, D. C., was
sold to New Orleans, La., Jefferson City Parish, on Napolian
Ave., between Fchoupitoulas and Jersey, in front of the
river.”

JOHN. BROWN

hero. Saint and Martyr.

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

NEW ORLEANS

Sarah Miranda declared again and again that two weeks
before Henry's arrival she couldn’t eat nor sleep. A terrible
restlessness seized her. It seemed as if her earnest desires
and prayers for six years, were at an end. Was she about
to die? She spoke of this lo “Aunt Reeky” and*' Aunt Di¬
nah.” She dreamed that a large man entered their house,
with such a sad countenance. Refore speaking, he pulled
aside his robe about his chest and displayed his heart crowned
with thorns and the blood dripping. Then He said: “All this
I bore for you. Will you not bear your cross from day to
day? She woke. The vision was gone. She was so dis-
turbed she could not go to sleep for a long time. When
she did, the same visitor came, showing His bleeding heart
as before, but did not speak. Then she knew it was Jesus.
She recognized him from the picture mother had hanging
on her wall. (We still have the picture). She answered:

(HARK, MY SOUL)

Hark, my soul! it is the Lord;

’Tis thy Saviour, hear his word:

Jesus speaks, he speaks to thee:

“Say, poor sinner, lovest thou me?”

I delivered thee when bound.

And when bleeding, healed thy wound;

Sought thee wandering, set thee right.

Turned thy darkness into light.

Can a mother’s tender care
Cease toward the child she bare?

* Yes, she may forgetful be.

Yet will I remember thee.

Mine is an unchanging love.

Higher than the heights above.

Deeper than the depths beneath.

Free and faithful, strong as death.

Thou shall see my glory soon
When the work of faith is done;

Partner of my throne shall be:

Say, poor sinner, lovest thou me?”

Lord, it is my chief complaint
That my love is weak and faint;

'Vet I love Thee and adore:

O, for grace to love Thee more!

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

Then she woke again. There was no more sleep for
her. Early next morning she told her dream to the old ladies.
They said: “Continue in prayer, the Lord has great work for
you to do.”

But Miranda thought it was a token of death and bravely
set about packing her things and begged the old women to
look after her little boy should she be called hence. She told
them to keep the child for she knew her mother could never
forget her. That some day some one would come from
mother to take back word of how it had been with her. She
said she felt her breath growing shorter and shorter as her
heart seemed to swell.

The more she thought about the work she had to do, she
would say: “I am not old enough; I am not prepared.” In
answer to deep meditation, a voice within her said: “If you
are a young sinner, I am a young Savior. If you are a mid¬
dle-aged sinner, I am a middie-aged Savior. If you are an
old sinner, I am an old Savior.” So many now living who
have heard her declare what the Lord had revealed to her.
O, so many visions she had that showed the work of the Spirit
in her heart. This is what made her extra powerful in de¬
claring His Truth, convicting sinners, and inspiring Christians.

The Sunday morning after this occurred, she arose
early, dressed in deep mourning, swept the house, porch,
and yard, and as if loath to again enter the house, she rested
- on her arms on the fence, she wondered if mother could see
the same stars that she did. She wondered if her folks were
still alive. If they were, why didn’t they write her?

In the early morning light, just after the dawn, she saw
a tall slender young man enter her street; he was dressed
in dark clothes, and wore a sailor cap. He seemed to he
looking for a certain number. Half way down the street he
stopped to inquire of a lady standing in her door. He
handed the paper to her to read. While siie was doing so,
his eyes wandered up and down. lie eyed that form dressed
in black. And the woman in black straightened up at full
height and eved him.

He almost rudely snatched the letter from the lady’s
hand, saving: “Give me the letter, yonder is my sister now."
A few strides brought him to the gate. They clasped each
other — able to say but one word each — “Sister!” “Brother!”
With tears streaming they managed to get into the house.

1/107/ 5I«0 lUll Y|« Ol olllll lOltlo

100

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“Is mother alive? How is father? Why didn t >ou ^rite
to me? I was in Levi Hurdle’s slave pen in Alexandria, \ a.,
two months, vet no one came to brine me any clean clothes.
I saw Aunt Sallie here, but she didn’t know me until I made
myself known. How is grandma? When did you leave the
Thompson’s? Is mother home with father? How arc my
twin brother and sister whom I’ve never seen? they are six
years old. Is Elias home? Saunders and Magg? All home
except me!*’ “And vou will soon he home, too, said Henry.
Then he told her how mother refused to live any longer when

she learned that she was sold. He told her of the vow he
made, that he would hud Miranda if she were on top the
ground and bring her hack. So he ordered her to get ready,
that he must he starting hack not later than Tuesday or
Wednesday. “O, for such LOVE let rocks and rills their
lasting silence break.”

Early Wednesday morning. Miranda,
Tom left New Orleans for Washington, I). C.

Henry and little
, never to return.

HOME! HOME! HOME!

Those were the longest days, hours, minutes, and seconds
that sister and brother ever knew, but each one brought them
nearer and nearer to their loving mother and father! During
that long ride Miranda told Henry how the Spirit of the Lord
had dealt with her. How she had been commanded to be
baptized. How she had been commissioned to go home and
“Teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

At last that long journey was ended, and they were in
Washington. I). C. Now onlv 20 minutes after taking the
way train on B. cN O. for Baltimore, and they would he at
Hyattsville, Md.! Fifteen minutes more and they would be
in father’s yard. Saunders, Maggie. Robert, and a cousin,
Norris Carter, brother of Mrs. Charlotte Shields, Washington,
D. C., went to the Hyattsville store, just in front of which the
cars stopped. O bey made a few purchases and were leaving
to go home. As they ascended the store steps, the 7:00 p. m.
train rolled up and stopped. As anyone would do, they
stopped to see who got oil* the train. To their utter astonish¬
ment, they saw brother Henry. But who was the woman
dressed in black, wearing a shaker bonnet, and carrying a

■ '

T IIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

101

child in her arms? Could tiiis be “Sister!” In a few min¬
utes the joyous truth was made known, and they started lor
home. When nearly to the house, it was remembered that
mother had gone to Rladensburg to a revival meeting at Dent
Chapel. Norris was sent hack to tell her what had happened
while the others approached the house.

Uncle Ilenrv, father’s brother, went with mother and
Elias to Dent Chapel, Elias being a mourner or seeker, went
straight forward on entering the church, and knelt at ihe
mourners’ bench. In a few minutes Norris entered and
said: “Aunt Emily, come home. Cousin Henry has come
and brought Cousin Miranda!”

Mother arose, went to Elias and partially lifting him
to his feet, led him out, beckoning to Uncle Henry to follow
them. She would have walked oft* that high porch had it
not been for Uncle Henry. For the Dent Chapel of that day
was the A roof of a carpenter's shop. Long stairs led to that
A roof where God met his children. It was built on the very
spot where the Methodist Parsonage now stands. It was the
Lord who directed Uncle Henry to that meeting that night,
Friday, October 19, 18(H) ! For mother would have killed
herself for very joy! She would have brushed Norris and
Elias aside, as she hastened beyond her speed. Rut Uncle
Henry spread his arms when he saw she was too anxious,
and said: “Steady, steady now, Sister Emily!” Ry walking
and half running they reached home before half past eight.

OUR CARIN HOME AT RIVERDALE

It faced South. There were two pictures (still in our
possession), and a looking glass hanging on the wall. On the
mantel-piece were two clocks, a large and a smaller one. The
large one was Miranda’s (father had given it to her), while
the small one was father’s. On the large clock door was
the picture of a woman made in a white frosted substance,
there were roses and other ornaments there. “Little Rrother”
and I thought that was “Sister’s” (Miranda’s) picture.
Mother’s bedstead having two feather beds thereon stood on
high foot posts, to allow our trundle bed to be pushed under
hers iii the day time. Father had made a cupboard for
mother s dishes. 1 here were I wooden chairs. I he upstairs
(under the A root), was divided into two rooms by a curtain —

102

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

boys slept in one part and Maggie occupied the other with
grandma (Nellie Ormc Arnold).

So that it happened on this particular Friday evening
father was sitting before the large fireplace, having just re¬
moved his shoes. I came round in front of him, and was
swinging on his knees. Being so unusual for Robert to leave
me, I was lonesome, and turning to look at the pendulum of
tbe large clock, I inquired: “Father, when is Brother Henry
coming and bring Sister?” He replied: “O, I am not looking
for him for two weeks more. I gave him a week to go, a
week to find her, and a week to return.” There was a shutter
door as well as the solid door, to let us have air and at the
same time keep the dog out.

Henry and Miranda and all were standing on the porch
and heard my question and father’s reply. Brother Henry
could hold in no longer, but shouted through the lattice door:
“Here we are!” and all came in. Father leaped over my
head, walked pass them without speaking a word. Went to
the east wall of the house, opened a secret closet, and took
out his double barreled gun. Went out doors to the east of
the house and toward Riverdale Mansion, and fired heavily
twice! Father told us afterward that he had promised those
who loaned him the money and other friends that so long as
they did not hear a gun shot from his house after dark, it
meant lie had heard nothing from Henry nor Miranda. If
they heard one shot it meant Henry had returned without
finding his sister. If two shots were fired, it meant Henry
had found and brought Miranda. Hence the two shots!
After firing, he returned to the house, and carefully pul the
gun away in its hiding place (this he did to keep the soldiers
from taking it), then went to embrace his beloved daughter,
his firstborn, her for whose care, safety, and keep he had
toiled and prayed so long! Now the object of his prayers
and struggles was standing before his very eyes! Never to
be again separated against their will! We never saw our
father shed tears save on two occasions. This was the first
time! As we all stood in the middle of the floor his tears ran
down and wet his feet (for he had not again put on his shoes).
Not a question did he ask them! His joy was too great for
utterance! In what seemed hours to mother, but in reality
a few minutes. Norris had come with mother, Elias, and
Uncle Henry. Sister Miranda was still standing talking to

I • -.1 !

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

103

us, and holding Tom in her arms. Mother rushed in and
seized her! “Miranda!” she breathlessly exclaimed simul¬
taneously with sister, who said that one blessed word — -
“Mother!” And, really they would have squeezed little Tom
to death, had not “Sister Magg” thoughtfully snatched him
from between them.

Then as soon as mother could cease her weeping enough,
she plied question after question — Miranda! why didn’t you
write to me? Why didn’t you conic up to see me when Ma
came just after the twins were born? When did you leave
Georgetown? How long were you in Levi Hurdle’s pen?
Had I known you were in Alexandria all that time I would
have walked all the way there from Ellicott City or died in
the attempt !

Sister Miranda said: “And these arc my little brother and
sister whom I’ve never seen before!” Then she told how
the Lord had shown her in a vision that her people in Bladens-
lnirg were in darkness, and that she must return there to
sing, pray, and warn them to repent, believe and be baptized.
So vividly did she believe and express her convictions that
father said: “Let us begin here, now!" He sang (all joined
in): “I’ll praise my Maker while I have breath, glory hallelu¬
jah. And I hope to praise Him after death! glory hallelujah !”
(You would have thought there were one hundred persons
singing instead of the eleven who were actually present.
Never before did such joy well up in more grateful hearts than
theirs). Father prayed, next we sang “I II trust in the Lord
till I die.” etc., then mother prayed. (Although 1 was only
() years old, I shall never forget the light and glow that radiated
from mother’s cheeks). Next they sang “Glory and praise
to Jesus give for His redeeming grace,” etc. Then “Sister”
prayed. (She forgot how tired the long journey had made
her. She was completely lost in love and rapture!) She told
the Lord that if He would go with her she would start the
church in Jesus’ name, and do as he had bid her do, etc., etc.,
etc. Such a clear ringing voice! We were heard a half-mile
awav !

It was now past mid-night, and it had just occurred to us
to tell sister Miranda grandma was upstairs sick. She was
then 33 years old, was stricken with paralysis in August, in
Fannie Hyatt’s kitchen. Had been lying on her back ever
■since, now October 1 Dili. We, all but father, then went up

'Uif .bio ; a i I •' m, ll

104

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

stairs, ,so sister could see grandma. When this was over
mother fixed a lied for sister and fom upstairs. Returned
down stairs, pulled our trundle bed from under hers, and
tucked us in. Then she and father retired for a few hours
only, for they had to rise early to serve their employers the
next day! October 20, 1800, was a New Day to them, and
to us all! It marked in Bladenshurg and vicinity a New Era,
so far as the colored people were concerned.

“Have you seen Mrs. Howard, ‘Sister’ Plummer’s daugh¬
ter that has just returned from New Orleans?” “Why man!
didn’t vou know Brother Adam Plummer sent his son, Ilenrv,
wav down to New Orleans for his daughter, Miranda? They
got back last Friday night. Didn’t you hear the firing that
night?” “Yes, but I didn’t know what it meant.” For years
it was a common thing to hear it said: “That happened before
Miranda come home,” or “She died soon after Henry brought
Miranda home.”

Now we could sing the fourth verse of “The Ninety and
Nine”—

“And far up the mountain thunder river.

And along the rocky steep,

There rose the glad song of joy to heaven,

‘Rejoice, I have found my sheep!’

And the angels echoed around the throne,

‘Rejoice, for the Lord brings back his own!’”

Let me add that grandma, Nellie Arnold, lingered three
months after Miranda came, and passed out January If), 18b7,
just ten years before her daughter, Emily. Miranda loved
grandma whom she called “Ma,” dearly. They lived to¬
gether after November 25. 18f>l. the dale of the sale of her
own mother and mine. From all Miranda could understand,
it was grandma who betrayed her into the hands of the trad¬
ers, causing her to he sold to New Orleans. But this was not
true. Another woman pointed out 181) (liven Street, George¬
town (Rev. Clark’s home), to the traders. Thus Miranda
got home just in time for grandma to tell just how it was
and who. Miranda said: “I knew Ma would not betray me.”
Thus passed away the mother of twenty-live children, twelve
of whom, four boys and eight girls, survived her.

October 19, ISbb! () that never to be forgotten dav!
The little Baptist Church that was born that Friday night
was the Gift oi the Holy Spirit poured into the hearts of

; fl; !!•/;.. i

i i 'i ■ i ! vn i 'In &nc»a !h;|£ *wtl i */l - 101IT

> * I'-’ i .

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

10f>

those four grown people, father, mother, Miranda, and Henry
Plummer. Their courage never failed, nor did their zeal
and ardor wane, out of deep and abiding Gratitude to God for
having united the entire family.

They held prayer meetings every week. Finally it was
thought best not to keep father up so late because of his
having to rise so early. The church homes will be traced
later. They continued to labor, sing, pray, and shout! By
December, 1807, father and mother had, with the help of Mi¬
randa and Henry and the little balance Henry brought back
from New Orleans, they had returned every dollar borrowed
to bring “Sister” home.

“WITH MALICE TOWARD NONE"— LINCOLN.

106

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, Oft
OUR OWN HOME

On July I T 1868, father bound the bargain with B. F.
Guy, July 1, 1868, for a hill adjoining Riverdalc, containing
ten acres, more or less, for the sum of one thousand dollars
($1,000), by paying him $311.75! This meant deprivation
such as you, of this day and time, know not of — almost star¬
vation. But for mother and sister some, if not all of us,
would have been sacrificed for sheer need of the common
necessities of life.

Father’s journal tells me that after receiving a note from
13. F. Guy saying come at once if you want the land, Adam
F. Plummer went to see Guy that night, carrying with him
$314.75 that he had saved and borrowed to bind the bargain.
By September 26. 1868, Guy sent for another payment ( as if
money grew on bushes for the freed men). That evening he
carried him $160.25, making $505 paid! Hard? worse than
that, but Hie thought of being in our own home urged them
on! Father, mother, sister, Henry, Julia, and Saunders
worked out and gave all they could make. By January 17,
1870, father had paid the entire thousand dollars! Much to
Guy’s surprise. For he was a speculator.

He never dreamed that father would or could pay for it
in the specified time — two years! So when it was completed
in 18 months, it was indeed a wonder! Guy’s neighbors had
said to him: “You are ruining our country!” “How is that.”
said Guy. “Why selling ‘Negroes land.’ ” Guy would reply:
“Don’t worrv. tliev can't raise the monev. In time, I’ll take
the land back.”

But he didn't know the man with whom he was dealing!
Guy said to father: “Never mind my payments, put up a nice
house.” “O no! Mr. Guy, not until I get the land paid for,”
said father.

Strange to say, by September, 1870, father had finished
building our four-room log house, and we moved from that
happy place on Calvert’s land, where sister, Miranda, had re¬
turned, and where the church was started, about two or
three hundred feet westward toward the B. & O. R. R., into
a happier place — Our Own Home! And bv March 17, 1872,
every dollar that had been borrowed had been returned.

Here, Charles Henry, the third son of Ilenry V. Plummer,
was born, December 30, 1870. lie was the first of the grand-

• ■*>

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

107

children to have been born in our own new home. Emma
Jane Clark, sister Miranda’s daughter, was horn November
2, 1870, at our former home, the Riverdale estate, where St.
Paul’s Baptist Church was started four years before.

I want to call the good names of those who trusted father
with their all. They were George Kent, Charles Allen, Sandy
Speaks, and Samuel Clark. Those ten acres with thirteen
and one-half acres adjoining bought from Brother Henry,
1881, make up “Mount Rose,” the Plummers’ homestead,
which is still in their right and possession.

“WOODLAWN"

Ellicott City, Howard County, Maryland.
The house where Robert and Nellie were born,
September 7, 1860.

108

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OPv

GROWTH OF THE CHURCH TO JANUARY 1, 1876.

Very soon after arriving home. Sister Miranda wrote for
her letter, which she placed in Second Baptist Church, 3rd
Street, between II and l Streets X. \V., Washington, D. C., as
her new church home. So ardently did she work that by
May, 1807, she had seven for baptism. The seven were Emily
Plummer, her mother, Henry, and Elias Plummer, her broth¬
ers, Julia Lomax, Camilla Morris, Fannie Mason, and Samuel
Clark. For years these seven worked to win others. They
often walked from Bladensburg, Hyattsville, and vicinity to
2nd Baptist Church in Washington to hear preaching or to
communion or prayer meeting.

in October, 1807, the seven, Edward Miner, probably
three others, with Sarah Miranda Plummer-Howard-Clark
(not more than twelve), were set apart as the First Baptist
Church of Bladensburg, by Sandy Alexander, of Georgetown
(now West Washington), who was then pastor of Second
Baptist Church.

Rev. Chauncy Leonard, a scholar in those days, was our
first pastor.

In March, 1809, the ice was broken to baptize Reuben C.
Moss, who was the first candidate to be emersed in Bladens¬
burg. Reuben Moss’ knowledge of the bible, and his ability

to read and write, were great, great helps to the little church,
laving the foundation for a Sunday School, started about 1870,
with Edward Miner as our first superintendent. He may
not have been able to read or write, but his heart was filled
with the Glory of God, which is His Love. No child knew
him hut to love him. He did what lie could— called us to¬
gether so that “Brother” Moss could teach us. “Brother”
Miner died August, 1870. beloved of all. Brother Henry
Plummer said: “We must close the church doors, for we can¬
not work here without Ned.” We learned that the workers
must die, hut the Work must go on!

And now, while I write, the daughter of our beloved dea¬
con Miner, Miss Sarah E. Miner, of Fourth Baptist Church,
now Metropolitan Baptist, is the efficient superintendent of
lha* church’s Sunday School, being one of the largest in
Washington. Then, too, no pastor is supported by his super¬
intendent more loyally than is Dr. Norman.

j y.W. m : /*tnw

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

109

I am told. Miss Miner, who I am so pleased to call niv
honored friend, is efficiency itself at the Bureau of Engraving
and Printing, where she has been employed for years. “Ren¬
dering unto Caesar the things that are Caesars; and unto
God the things that are God's.”

Mv mother named her baby sister “Rosa.” after her
sisier Rosa, who was lost in the terrible snow storm, January
IS. 18a 7.

Somehow, in a way that we cannot explain, Robert, the
eldest child of Edward and Winnifred Minor, sickened and
died. Not long after the father died. Next, the mother
passed away, leaving Sa Hie. Jennie, and little Rosa alone.
Jennie went to Richmond to live. We never heard of her
since. Rosa and Sadie, who loved each other clearly, lived
together at 173a lllh Street X. W. Rosa was a beautiful
dressmaker. Then, in 1912, she went to join father, mother,
and brother.

I am sorry for anyone who does not know Miss Sarali
E. Miner, for she inherited from her parents (both of them,
never were husband and wife more loving), a depth of grati¬
tude that enables her to love all.

So many other instances I could give to prove that St.
Paul’s Baptist Church of Bladcnsburg, Md.. is going up, “By
Way of the Cross,” hers is a “Triumphant Cross,” in “Chang¬
ing the Cross,” one finds it is best to do what God wants you
to do with sincerity, faithfulness and patience.

“Brother” Moss, as we affectionately called him. was my
honored Sunday School teacher for five years, until I entered
Wavland Seminary in 1873. I can hear him saying now:
“Read, daughter.”

I must wearv you describing the beginning of that Sun¬
day School, in “The Rabbit Gum." The little room was on
the east side of Sand Street, opposite Coldenstroth's Garden,
near the water, and less than seventy-five feet from “The
Soldiers’ Memorial Cross.” It was there, in 1870. probably
in July, that the Nursery of our Church was started, fit was
there on the third Sunday in June that The Union was born in
1870.) How many, O. how many have been connected with
that Sunday School during these lift y-si x years! Older per¬
sons, younger persons, children! “Some have gone from us
forever, longer here they could not stay. They have reached
a fairer region far away.”

. • I :,T>y u •

110

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

On that first Sunday there were present Ferdinand Hall,
Robert Miner. William Redd, Albert Alexander, Saunders, and
Robert Plummer, William Harris, and other boys, whose
names I fail to recall. There were Fannie, Lucy, and Mary
Lucas, Louisa Lowe-Johnson, Alice Redmund-Carroll, Sallie
and Jennie Miner, Ruth Hall, Emma Peterson, Maggie Plum¬
mer, Jennie Dozier, and others.

Though tiny and meagre in its beginning, that Sunday
School has proven to be the very “Gates of Heaven” to our
souls. Then we appreciated a blessing! This 1 do know of
today: We have many, many opportunities to improve our¬
selves, thus increasing our power to do for others, that we
do not accept because we don't want to make the sacrifice.

There are three departments now — Seniors, Juniors, Be¬
ginners. Miss Eliza B. Wheeler who, for sixteen years, has
been our superintendent, is still leading the children, of whom
I am one. Rev. Hall, Mrs. Katie Plumnier-Oscar, and others
have served us well.

We have a Penny Savings Bank, connected with our Sun¬
day School. We have saved Si 25, which are now in the hands
of the Treasurer, Mrs. Sadie Plummer-Johnson. Long live
St. Paul's Baptist Church Sunday School!

W-r-

- V " ■ .

” - ~ ■** * - „ _ 1 *. ■v'

~ ^ ~ _ \ * W

1 .L t . - 7 • ' /

• : - ' . ' ■ mte 24

I--** •*

ADAM F. PLUMMER’S OWN HOME.

Built during tlie Summer arid Fall of 1870. Lo^s were cut and hewed on the spot.
Me named the place (10 acres) “Mount Rose (1870-1888.)

Sketched by Dr. M. V. Q. Plummer.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

111

THIRD QUARTERLY MEETING

of the

BAPTIST SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION

with

MOUNT AIRY BAPTIST CHURCH
L Street, between North Capitol and First Streets N. W.
SUNDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 20, 1008

at 3:00 O’clock

PROGRAM

Praise Service for Thirty Minutes, Led by
Rev. Irving Jones, Mt. Airy
Mr. Silas Janies, Third Baptist

3:30 Welcome Address _ Mr. E. Preston

Superintendent, Mt. Airy
Response to Welcome Address .... Miss Nellie Plummer

Bladensburg

Solo _ _ _ _ _ Miss Irene Grooms

Report of Secretary for the Quarter —

Acting Secretary, Mr. Jos. A. Thomas
Report of Delegates who attended the Lott Carey
Foreign Mission Convention and the Mt. Bethel

Sunday School Union.

4:00 Paper on the Life of David . . . Miss Rosa Minor

Metropolitan Baptist

Duett . . the Misses Tyler

Paper on the Life of Samuel . Miss Ida Henry

Liberty Baptist

4:20 Summary of the Sunday School Lessons for

this Quarter . . . . Mr. Win. I. Lee

Superintendent, 10th Street Baptist
4:35 Queries and Short Remarks on Questions Per¬
taining to the Interest of the Convention.

4:45 Report of the Chairman of the General Com¬
mittee on Bible Institute, to be Held at
Third Baptist Church, October 1th to Dili,

1008.

■

< '

112

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

4:50 Public Collection. Payment of Quarterly Dues
and Money for Bible Institute.

5:15 Benediction.

Music for the Afternoon by the Choir of
First Baptist Sunday School, S. W.

Rev. II. A. Tyler, Pastor of Mount Airy Church.

Mr. E. Preston. Superintendent of Sunday School.

Rev. Wm. D. Jarvis, I). D., President Baptist Sunday
School Union.

What the Christian Endeavor Society did and is doing
for St. Paul’s Baptist Church. Bladensburg, Md.

Because our children at The Home had formerly gone
to Lincoln Memorial Congregational Church. I was closelv
associated with the work of Rev. Geo. W. Moore and his good
wife, the great Ella Shepard Moore, who trained the famous
Jubilee Singers.

I attended praver meeting with them, communed there,
and sang in their choir, when impossible to come home.

It was said that Rev. Moore had the oldest and best En¬
deavor in Washington. At any rate, it was there I was
trained to do my bit.

On September 4. 1892. Mr. A. C. Garrott. their president,
was to have come out to install our officers, but could not.
Wodncsdav. September 7th. he wrote me that ho was on the
sick list, therefore could not come out the next Sunday, the
11th. So, we started September 11, 1892, with the following
officers and members:

President. Rev. F. G. Hall: Vice President. Mrs. Hattie
Moss-Fortunc: Socrolarw Miss Sadie Plummer: Treasurer.
Miss Court nev Bnmhrv: Organizer. Miss Xellie A. Plummer.

Active Roll. Males: Rov. R. A. McDonald, Rev. F. G. Hall.
Dr. R. F. Plummer. Deacon Saunders Plummer. Walter Hill.
^T\, Samuel Clark. Hon. Jesse Bumbry Henry Moss. James
TV-‘dlacc, Janies Haves, Alexander Vaughn, Richard Holland,
Sr.

Active Roll. Females: Hattie Moss-Fortune. T.izzie Moss-
Krpf. Maggie Plummer-Brown, Mabel Brown, Mamie Hol¬
land Amelia burner. Sadie Plummer. Xellie Plummer, Court-
n°v Bumbry, Julia Bumbry-Green, Margaret Bumbry, Eliza
Smallwood.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

113

Associate Roll, Males: Walter Hill, Jr., Joseph Moss,
Wellington Hardy, Willie Redd, Jr.

Associate Roll, Females: Mary Scott, Lottie Jackson,
Lillie Holland, Ellie Mason, Jessie Bailey, Fannie Hall, Katie
Rebecca Plummer, Ida Plummer, Katie Cook-Plummer, Isa-
dore Hardy.

1893— OFFICERS

President, Dr. Robert F. Plummer; Vice President, Rev.
F. (1. Hall; Secretary, Miss Sadie Plummer; Treasurer, Miss
Courtney Bumbry.

Committees: Prayer Meeting, Missionary, Sick, Social,
Music.

Members: Activee, Associate, Honorary

1891-1900

Following names added to Active List. Males: Grant
Plummer, Willie Green, James W. Williams, Solomon Bailey,
Bazil Wells, Thomas Ennis, George Lowe, Philip Broome,
Charles Weedon. Rev. G. G. Mills, Boswell Hammond, Au¬
gustus Tucker, Charles Plummer, Alfred Plummer, Robert
Plummer, Nicholas Plummer, Rudolph Plummer, .1. A. Lewis,
Willie Mason, Arthur Holland.

Females: Sarah Alexander-Malthews, Ellie Mason, Lillie
Holland, Katie R. Plummer, Katie C. Plummer, Ida Plummer,
Irene Brown, Bessie Brown, Nellie P. Brown, Fannie Hall,
Annie Johnson, Jessie Bailey, Susan Bailey, Carrie Wheeler,
Eliza Wheeler, Mary J. Snell, Gertrude Ennis, Eva Ennis,
Mamie Wheeler, Gertrude Hammond. Mabel Glascoe, Flor¬
ence Glascoe, Bertha Smith, Jessie Holland, Winnie Wheeler,
Maggie Gaither, Rosa Glascoe, Frances Redd, Florence Redd,
Hattie Jackson.

Associate Males: Samuel Hardy, Ivison Hardy, Frank
Wright, Joseph Reed.

On July 20, 1903, t lie Christian Endeavor Society of the
Bladenslnirg Baptist Church was reorganized at the Church.
Meeting was called by N. A. Plummer. The following offi¬
cers were elected:

Eliza B. Wheeler, President; Wm. E. Burke, Vice Presi¬
dent; Hattie B. Jackson, Secretary; Robert F. Plummer, As¬
sistant Secretary; Clarence B. Moss, Treasurer.

The meetings will he held on Thursday evenings from
8 to 9 o’clock sharp. From 9 to 10, general prayer meeting.
Consecration meetings every 3th Sunday, at 11:30 a. m.

•)

n . ) ; ; ' r.

■ . . . . , i o: x

Ill

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

The following persons were present: Rev. J. S. L. Burke,
Philip Broome, Nicholas Saunders Plummer, Charles Plum¬
mer, Nellie A. Plummer, Robert Plummer, Rudolph Plum¬
mer, Katie R. Plummer, Sadie P. -Johnson, Ida R. Johnson,
Maggie P.-Brown, Irene Brown, Bessie Brown, Nellie P.
Brown, Thomas Jackson, Oliver Johnson, James Wallace,
Joseph Dunnington, Robert Washington. Clarence Moss,
Wallace Williams, William Burke, Augustus Tucker, James
Glascoe, Mabel Glascoc, Florence Glascoe, Rosa Glascoe,
Eliza Wheeler, Alberta Hill, Edna Hill, Harry Garner, Helen
Garner, Pearl Lucas, Louisa Hodge, Walter Hill, Carrie
Wheeler, George Jackson, Hattie Jackson.

SEPTEMBER 9, 190G
ENDEAVOR

President, Eliza B. Wheeler; Vice President, Clarence B.
Mosvs; Secretary, Rudolph Plummer; Assistant Secretary,
Winnie Wheeler; Treasurer, Florence Glascoe.

SEPTEMBER 9, 1906

Sunday School, term ending 3rd Sundav in July, 1907.
Philip Broome, Superintendent; Robert Plummer, Assistant
Superintendent; Arthur Holland, Second Assistant Superin¬
tendent; Katie R. Plummer, Treasurer; Nellie P. Brown, Sec¬
retary; \\ innie W heeler. Assistant Secretary.

THIRD SUNDAY, JULY, 1907
SUNDAY SCHOOL

Superintendent, Katie R. Plummer; Assistant Superinten¬
dent, Philip Broome; Second Assistant Superintendent Ro¬
bert Plummer; Third Assistant Superintendent, Rudolph
1 lummer; Treasurer, Sadie Plunimcr-Johnson; Secretary
Nellie P. Brown; Assistant Secretary, Winnie Wheeler; Libra¬
rians, Rosa Glascoe, Irene Brown, Alvin Kent, Clinton, Kent
Helen Garner. Marie Plummer; First Bible Class Teacher!
Rev. Burke; Assistant Bible Class Teacher, N. A. Plummer;

1 (;lass rcachcr, Sadie P.-Johnson; Assistant
Bilne Class leaeher, Bessie E. Brown; Infant Class, Eliza B.
\\ heelei , Inlant Class Assistant, Laura Dailey.

avfl.18 ClfllHT

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

115

CHURCH BUILDING BURNED, JULY 8, 1907!

Hence my call to Chairman of Finances, which ended in
five years, and I am yet alive, to God be the glory!

Although the following persons attended preaching serv¬
ices regularly, as well as the Sunday School and Endeavor,
scarcely ever missing, still Messrs. William Redd, Sr., Albert
Alexander, Walter Hill, Jr., and Mrs. Lottie Jaekson-Johnson
never were fully persuaded to give their hearts to Jesus, but
every department of the church is still praying for them. We
. still hope to so influence them that they will yet join the
Old Church that has spiritually yearned for them.

We do not hesitate to say the Church owes its very ex¬
istence to the work of these two auxiliaries, the Endeavor and
the Sunday School.

Miss Eliza B. Wheeler has been the president of our En¬
deavor for twenty-one years, the superintendent of the Sun¬
day School for sixteen years. If you would seek, it would
not be hard for you to discover a reason for her having been
elected each year for so long. She was an influential leader.
She has influenced all of us, the old and the young. What
was the secret of her success? She never forsook Prayer¬
meeting! It was there she found Grace to help in every need.
Nor did she hesitate to work anywhere for the good of the
church. Her church has honored her on every occasion that
presented itself, giving her the opportunity to express the
God in her, namely her power to memorize and recite. We,
as a church, denies no possibility to man. We have no doubt
of the Power of God!

For my part, I am justly proud of my “children in the
Gospel,” for she has influenced me for good. To me she has
been a Joshua.

The fact that the church has for years given each fourth
Sunday night to the cause of Temperance, shows where we
stand, striving to be temperate in all things.

So, whether for the Sunday School, the Christian En¬
deavor, the Aid, the United Aid, the Willing Workers, or our
Temperance Union, we all cry: “For Christ and the. Church!”
seeking to: Let this mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus.
—Phil. 2:5.

This mind never takes offense; it never receives an in¬
sult; it is never jealous; it is never angry; it knows no malice.

Resentment never even suggests itself; it is never discour¬
aged; it never whines nor moans.

116

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

It never listens to words of ill icport and, therefore,

never repeats such.

It does not gossip, or love iniquitv.

It has always words of praise for all who conic into its
presence; it recognizes no enemies; it is not self-seeking;
knows no pride.

Let this mind he in you. and your body will be perfect,
enduring, and strong, beautiful.

It is not looking lor flaws, does not find fault, is not com¬
plaining.

This mind never worries, frets, nor fears; hate is un¬
known to it.

It never fights, resists, nor in cowardice turns its back.
It never has its feelings hurt.

Death holds no terror; and sickness is completely under

its control.

It is never sad, gloomy, brooding nor moody.

It never meditates on evil.

Knows no doubt of the power of God.

And denies no possibility to man.

Does not condemn, or judge.

All because it is the Mind of God!

The following programme shows how we celebrated the
thirty-fifth (35th) anniversary of our Endeavor:

PROGRAMME
8 ]). m., September 11, 1627

35th Anniversary of Our Endeavor — 1862-1927, day and date.
Song Service

Opening Song _ _ _ _ _ Congregation

Devotionals

Song _ _ Junior Choir and Congregation

Select Reading _ Mrs. E. R. Wheeler

Song _ _ _ _ _ _ Junior Choir

History of our C. E. . . . Miss N. A. Plummer

Song - - - Junior Choir and Congregation

“Will There Re Any Stars ?”

Remarks . . . . . Visitors and Pastor

Collection

Notices, Closing Hymn, “We Are Marching to Zion.”
Benediction

Mrs. Marie L. Davis, President.

Miss Jeanne Chinn, Secretary.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

117

A young student, Enoch Homer Grasty, from Howard
University, used to fill the pulpit. Our next pastor was Au¬
gustus Watts, Charles Taylor, Charles Jackson, Edward Miner,
used to exhort us when the pastor was absent. Rev. Solomon
Pollard was a never-failing friend.

In December, 1875, the once slave hoy who had started
by speaking “The Roy Stood on the Burning Deck, Whence
all but him had fled, etc.,” was ordained to the Gospel Min¬
istry of Christ! O what a step!

In going by “Way of the Triumphant Cross,” even as far
as New Orleans and back, he had become an ardent advocate
of the Cross of Jesus. Thus he became pastor, advisor, a
brother, indeed, to the mother of the little church. By this
time the church had grown to probably -10 or 50 members,
with cpiite a following.

The Bladensburg Burying Association, or The Union.

Just here let me name one of the hundreds of things done
by H. V. Plummer for the uplift. For four years he had put
heart and soul into the church work. Religion to him was
helping the poor and needy, as well as praising God in church.
The following history will explain itself:

HISTORY OF THE BLADENSBURG UNION

As is well known, the Emancipation Proclamation issued
by the Immortal Lincoln on January 1, 1803, left the f reed-
men entirely dependent.

For twenty-one years HENRY V. PLUMMER was the
constant advisor, leader, and backer of this community of
colored people.

A person died in 1870, when Undertaker Francis Gasch
refused to bury the body unless II. V. Plummer stood for the
expense. This he did, as he had done many times before.
To help his people to help themselves, he devised the following
plan: He called a meeting in June, 1870, which was attended
by the following older people and others: William Mason,
Fannie Mason, Reuben Moss, Darius Bowman, Uriah Wallace,
Josiah Johnson, Catherine Bowman, Emily Plummer. Sylvia
Wallace, William and Annie Davis, Edward and Winifred
Minor, Lucy Ross, Sarah Alexander Matthews, Richard and
Amelia Jackson, Nancy Smothers, Miranda Plummer-Clark.

r r, o ;•

118

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

H. V. Plummer proposed a society which they named
“Bladenslnirg Burying Association.”

Darius Bowman, the eldest person present, being so en¬
thused at the plan and prospect presented, said to II. V. Plum¬
mer: “You arc young, hoy, go forward, and we will hack
you.” This was the beginning of what is known to us as
“The Bladcnsburg Union.”

May she live forever!

By 1871 they had raised the enormous sum (for those
days), of three hundred (8800) dollars, as t lie bond required
by the first treasurer shows. During those of) years we have
had hut three treasurers — Rev. II. V. Plummer, 14 years; Rev.
F. G. Hall, 10 years; and (Miss) Nellie A. Plummer, 26 years.
Our presidents have all been honorable men. T he colors
adopted are black and white. Mrs. Julia PIummcr-RufTin
made the first regalias and rosettes. Mrs. Lula Moss- Welch
helped to make the Banner which we still cherish.

In 1920, we celebrated our Fiftieth Anniversary by greatly
adding to our treasury in large Gifts. The spiritual awak¬
ening was great.

We have met every obligation. To God he the Glory for
having kept Love’s Banner floating over us!

1870 ' 1920

THE BLADENSBURG UNION
(H. V. PLUMMER, Founder)

Will Celebrate Their Fiftieth Anniversary Beginning in June

and Ending in October

It was unanimously agreed that each Member and Friend
of the Union honor our Golden Jubilee with a suitable GIFT.

Said token of gratitude will be due at the Annual Sermon,
the third Sunday in June, the 20th, at 3 P. M.

Each of the Ten Captains is urged to make his report on
or before the Third Sunday.

PROGRAM: SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 1920, 3 P. M.

1. Processional . Grand Chorus and the Union

2. Installation of Officers

3. Sermon

4. Anthem.

f>. Presenting the Gifts— Descent of the Dove of Peace.

0. Recessional

119

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS
50TH ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM

JUNE _ _ _ Annual Sermon

JULY _ _ _ In Memoriam

AUGUST _ _ The Return to “Zion” of the Remnant

SEPTEMBER _ _ _ _ The “Love Feast”

OCTOBER: (a) Semi-Centennial Orchestra Musical

(b) Exhibition by Public School Children

(d) THE FEAST

PRESENT OFFICERS

Unanimously Elected For The Year of Jubilee

Augustus Bowie _ President

Robert Johnson _ _ _ Vice President

Walter R. Davis _ Chairman of Sick Committee

Martha Brown _ Assistant Chairman of Sick Committee

Nellie A. Plummer _ Treasurer (20 years)

William E. Burke _ Secretary

Ida S. P. Johnson _ Assistant Secretary

William Redd _ Marshal

Richard Carroll _ Chairman of Board of Directors

Philip Broome _ Chaplain

A FEW OF THOSE WHO
ZEALOUSLY FOSTERED THE UNION

PRIOR TO 1 9 0 0
ORIGINAL MEMBERS

Josiab Johnson Sarah Miranda Plummer

Fannie Mason Sarah Alexander

Emily Plummer Edward Miner

Darius Bowman Winifred Miner

Re?. IT. V. Plummer . — 1st President-Treasurer, 1T years

Rev. b . Ci. Hall ... Scribe, Advisor, 2nd Treasurer, 10 years

Brother N. S. Plummer - - President, 15 years

Brother John II. Moss . . . Secretary for many years

Brother Reuben Moss . . . . . . . . President

Brother Alexander Scott . . . Marshal for years

Hon. Jesse Bumbry Richard Jackson

Wellington Redd Charles Turner

Richard Holland J. H, Wigginton

1870 1920

h ; A •

bfii.Uu l i inuibiH

0T8I

120

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

THE CLOSING OF THE
GOLDEN JUBILEE

of the

BLADEXSBURG UNION

Sunday, September 20, 1920, at 3 P. M.

will he memorable for “The Return to Zion of the Remnant,”
and “The Love Feast on Spiritual Things.”

All PRESENT and FORMER members and friends are
urged to WITNESS, and to help CLOSE our Golden Jubilee
with Thanksgiving and Praise

Bladcnshurg, Md.

Rev. H. T. Gaskins, Pastor

AT ST. PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH

Augustus Bowie, President Wm. E. Burke, Secretary

I. S. P. Johnson, Assistant Secretary
N. A. Plummer, Treasurer-Chairman

“Come with us. and we will do thee good,” hut we must
take up our crosses daily, and follow Him who once said:
I’ll draw all men unto Me!” “Lift Him up by living as a
Christian ought. Let the world in you the Savior see! Lift
Him up! Lift Him up!”

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

121

CHAPTER IX

DEATH OF MOTHER!

Mother, who was present at the Watch-Night services,
Friday, December 31, and Saturday morning, January 1, sang
“Happy New Year,’' as she had done for years. On Sunday
morning, January 2, 1870, Brother Henry preached ids initial
sermon. Text: Psalm 116:12, 13 — “What shall I render unto
the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take of the
cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord.” As
soon as Brother Henry finished preaching, mother arose from
her seat, and going to the pulpit, shook hands with her Henry,
saying: “Son, you have preached my funeral sermon! God
has given me all for which I have asked Him! My cup run¬
neth over! To think that my son has been elevated to the
pulpit, and I have sat under his voice today! It is enough!”
Then she took her seat, communion followed. Never was
there a prouder or happier, and at the same time, a more
grateful mother in all ihe world than Emily Plummer was
that Sunday!

Emily Plummer’s Seven Crosses — any one of which
would have caused the stoutest heart to quail:

1. The Cross of separation from her relatives (espe¬
cially her mother whom she dearly loved), and friends, and
the only home she ever knew, to Meridian Hill, Washington,
D. C., for four years. Then she is carried to “Mount He¬
bron,” Ellieotts City, Howard County, Md. (9 miles south¬
west of Baltimore). Remained there about a year. Then
she was moved to “Woodlawn” (an adjoining hill to Hebron),
the name of Mrs. Thompson’s home, being willed to her.
There she lived seven vears.

A letter from Emilv Plummer to Adam Plummer, Julv
2, 1856: “I will he very glad to see you this Saturday, and
I cannot think we are parted for life. Please send me word
how my two children are by William, if you do not come
yourself. Master has promised to be your protector if you
can possibly come. Do lind out how mother and all my
sisters and brothers are, and let me know.”

2. The Cross of physical suffering was second only to
anguish ol heart and mind. Recause she dared to seek free¬
dom in 1815, she was sent to the Held to work.

122

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

€4

The very person who carried her marriage license to
Miss Sally,” told Emily her mistress told her to do so. When
Miss Sally” learned that Emily was working in the field, she
said: “Who told you to go? Who told you to go? Now that
you have gone without my permission, stay out there.” In
time, Emily’s feet became “dew poisoned.” Every year or
two there would recur those ulcers which grew very, very
painful at times.

A letter from Emily to Adam reads: “I hope this will
find you better than it leaves me. My feet have been very
bad. I can’t walk. My mistress, Mrs. Thompson, talks of
sending me to the Baltimore Infirmary, and have my foot
taken off. I have no one to look to but you and my good
Lord. Try to come as soon as you can, and bring my daugh¬
ter. Give my love to my poor mother, and tell her 1 want to
see her, and tell her I haven’t walked since the week before
Christmas. Do trv to come up Easter. Your wife till death.
March 20, 1857.”

What else could Emily say but “poor mother,” after re¬
ceiving Adam’s letter that brought her such terrible news as
follows: “Your mother, Nelly Arnold, in the city of Wash¬
ington, will he sold at public or private sale for a grocery
bill, at Mr. Jackson’s, for six hundred dollars, but he refused
it, and she still remains unsettled, but 1 hope that she will
find some resting place for her weary head.”

3. The Cross of the sale of her mother and three sisters
“down South.”

4. The death of Marjorie Arnold, and Rozclla Arnold-
Hawkins was a cross that seemed too heavy to hear.

5. What greater cross than the constant dread of having
her two children. Miranda and Elias, sold “down South?”
In the fall of 1800, Miranda was sold.

(3. O what a cross to see her little children ill-treated
daily by Col. Thompson, and Henry’s “running away” in
April, 1802, leaving her alone.

7. Iler last cross was not the least, before obtaining
Freedom; she and her live children must be cast into prison!
(October 1), 1803.)

On December 9, 1803, she arrived at Riverdale, in Adam
Plummer’s house, and her soul was satisfied. The worst was
over. Prayer by Way of the Cross had overcome! But one
enemy remained, death. She met him bravely!

• ■ ' ' '

mrbt. ni .ali.lnwifl )e bovmn oil* ,€!>« r .« ifclnmaCI ftO

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

123

Out of the Depths of Slavery! The Cross has triumphed,
and a soul is to enter the “New Life!”

“Must Jesus hear the cross alone.

And all the world go free?

No, there’s a cross for every one,

And there’s a cross for me.

The consecrated cross I’ll bear
Till death shall set me free,

And then go home my crown to wear.

For there’s a crown for me.”

In 1875, Reuben Moss, Aaron Shorter, and F. G. Hall
built a little three-room, one story house for H. V. Plummer,
on land bought from R. F. Guy, adjoining that of Adam
Plummer’s to the South. Moving into this ncwlv-plastered
house in winter was believed to have caused Henry’s wife
to become ill with acute inflammatory rheumatism. All the
week following Henry’s first sermon, mother spent waiting
on the sick. When resting at night, she lay on a pallet on the
floor. Being used to sleeping on her feather bed, the change
was too great. By the second Sunday morning, January 9th,
mother had a severe pain in her side. Couldn't keep awake.
Had a chill. Sent for Dr. Chas. A. Wells, pneumonia had set
in. In spite of all that loving hands could do, our beloved
mother passed away on the 9th day, Monday, 7:50 P. M.,
January 17, 1876. At different times during that dreadful
week, mother gave each child his or her charge. I, who had
entered Wayland the September before, was sent for on Sat¬
urday. All of us except Elias Q. received her parting words
and blessing. She was a great lover of fresh air, sunshine,
and pure water.

That last Monday morning, she asked to he turned around
so that she could look out of doors, showing her love of na¬
ture. When she was satisfied, she said: “Now put me hack
again.” She declared angels- were hovering around. She
said: “Lord, behold your servant! Don’t suffer that cough
to come hack upon me.” Whenever she awoke during that
week of terrible suffering, she would speak to and offer to
shake hands with some one long since gone.

To her mother who died ten years before, she said: “Why
ma! I’ve gotten home at last!” Her face did glow with a
glory that can’t lie described. She apparently shook hands

.Ir.' ia ool *bw

124

OUT OF TIIF DEPTHS, OR

with some one and said: “Brother Frank Crown! The Lord
has brought me through the valley of the shadow of death!”

When we tried to call her back to consciousness at that
particular time, she said: “There are angels hovering round!
They will carry the tidings home! To the new Jerusalem!
A poor sinner is coming home! And Jesus bids her come!
There is glory all around!”

From that day to this, we have never doubted that at the
close of life, some spirits are permitted to communicate with
spirits.

At 7 o’clock that never-to-be-forgotten night she sang:
“O for a thousand tongues to sing My great Redeemer's praise.
The glories of my Cod and King, The triumphs of His grace.”
She sang with a clear, strong voice, while patting her feet
against the bedding. It broke my heart to see her so liapny
at going, when we wanted to keen her so badly! Then she
nave Robert into Father’s care, and me to Sister Julia and her
husband, Louis T. Ruffin. Then she asked the time. Bv ten
minutes to 8 o’clock, our devoted mother was no more here!
“When e’er I think of her, so dear, I feel her angel presence
near.”

Her funeral was set for 1 o’clock, Wednesday, January
10, 1876. Our pastor. Rev. Augustus Watts missed the 12
o’clock train from Washington, and walked out. No more
trains until 1 P. M. He arrived as we were standing around
the open grave, the body having beeen lowered at 3 P. M. He
offered the closing prayer. A life-long friend. Brother John
Chase, a class leader at Dent Chapel, Bladensburg. officiated
at the funeral as best he could. Thus Henry had preached
her “funeral sermon,” as she predicted. We remember it as
such to this day — now past of) years!

Father had reserved a quarter of an acre of ground at
the northwest corner of our farm adjoining the B. A 0. R. R.
for a family burial place. It was there we buried her. In¬
deed, we never could have stood the sorrow had she been taken
away off. We felt as if she was "just over there,” and that
helped us. Whenever we had any flowers — especially roses,
of which we had hundreds of bushes, we used to snow the
grave under with them. Then, too, as we went to work, to
school, the store, or church, we’d pass so very near to where
she lav, waiting till Resurrection Morn!

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

125

“There we laid our loved one, our loved one! In her
mossy bed — and the dewy lilies crowned her peaceful head!”

So, for 50 years, we have tried to imitate her by singing:
“Happy New Year” the first thing on rising from our knees
in the New Year. Nothing seems io draw us so near to God
as singing her favorite Easter hymn: “He dies! the Friend of
sinners dies!” Lo! Salem’s daughters weep around! A
solemn darkness veils the skies, a sudden trembling shakes
the ground!” which we have done at the “Appointed Place”
every Easter. At every church service possible, we sing: “O
for a thousand tongues to sing, etc.” Thus we have kept her
memory alive. She was never so happy as when worship¬
ping God or giving to some needy person, especially a child.
And now we can sav what we thought never could be said:
“The Lord gave, the Lord has taken! Blessed lie the name
of the Lord!!!” O how happy the reunion shall lie!

“So long thy power hath blest me, sure it still will lead
me on o’er moor and fen, o'er crag and torrent, till the night
is gone, and with the morn those angel faces smile which I
have loved long since, and lost awhile!”

I cannot close this description of the most solemn experi¬
ence of my life without mentioning the names of Susan Wash¬
ington who staid with 11s that last day of mother’s illness, spent
the night with us after closing her eyes in death, and prepared
her body for burial. Then there was Josiah Johnson, the
father of Fannie Mason, who dug the grave that was to hold
all that was mortal of our beloved mother. Francis Gaseh,
the undertaker, has recently died.

Dr. Chas. A. Wells, our family physician, who recently
died. March 1, 1921, has a warm place in our memory. Any
service rendered then has remained unalterably sacred to
this day and forever! This beloved mother of eighteen chil¬
dren passed on. aged sixty, survived by eight children, four
sons and four daughters.

“Rock of Ages cleft for me.

Let me hide myself in Thee!

While I draw this fleeting breath,

•When my eyes shall close in death.

When I rise, to worlds unknown.

And behold Thee on Thv throne.

Rock of Ages, cleft for me.

Let me hide myself in Thee!”

•*

av/^ti ,iuu <il)iTow ol o*ii 1 nr\iY/1

120

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

What we said of mother thirty-one years after her death:

In “The story of my life and work,” written by Hooker T.
Washington, I quote the following: “Bought of Daniel Mur¬
ray’s son in Negro Building, Jamestown Exposition. Satur¬
day, August 3, 1907, at 1 P. M., by Nellie A. Plummer, having
spent several delightful days at the great Hampton Institute,
Virginia, Booker T. Washington spoke at 1 P. M., of the same
day.

This book is lovingly and tenderly dedicated to the sacred
memory of Emilv Saunders Plummer, our more than devoted
mother, who died January 17, 1876.

“Weep not for her! She is an angel now, and treads the
sapphire floors of Paradise. All darkness wiped from her re¬
fulgent brow — Sin, sorrow, suffering banished from her eyes.
Victorious over death to her appears the vista’d joys of hea¬
ven’s eternal years: Weep not for her!”

PLUMMER. In fondest, loving memory of our beloved
mother, EMILY SAUNDERS, who died forty years ago today,
January 17, 1876; brother HENRY VINTON, February 10,
1905; sister Sarah Miranda, March 4. 1905; dear father, ADAM
FRANCIS, December 13, 1905; brother NICHOLAS SAUN¬
DERS, July 28, 1911; also our nephews and nieces, 1900-1905.

“So long Thy power hath blest us, sure it still will lead us on
O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, till the night is
gone.

And with the morn those angel faces smile.

Which we have loved long since and lost awhile.”

BY THE FAMILY,

Hvattsville, Md.

When we had lost her a half century, she still was not
forgotten, as the following shows:

IN MEMORIAM
January 17, 1926

To the Glory of God, in Loving Memory of

MOTHER

EMILY SAUNDERS PLUMMER
Who Rested From Her Labors, January 17, 1876

She had entered into freedom of body, January 1. 1863.
She welcomed the return of her first born, Sarah Miranda
(who had been sold to New Orleans), October 19, 1866.

She was a witness to the first sermon preached by her

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

127

eldest son. Rev. H. V. Plummer, Pastor of St. Paul’s Baptist
Church, Bladenshurg, Md., Sunday, January 2, 1876.

For these and many other blessings, she was enabled to
cry out in death:

1. O For a thousand tongues, to sing
My great Redeemer’s praise;

The glories of my God and King,

The triumphs of His Grace!

2. My gracious Master and my God.

Assist me to proclaim.

To spread through all the earth abroad.

The honors of Thy name.

3. Jesus! the name that charms our fears.

That bids our sorrows cease;

*Tis music in the sinner’s ears,

’Tis life, and health, and peace.

4. He breaks the power of cancelled sin.

He sets the prisoner free;

His blood can make the foulest clean;

His blood availed for me.

5. He speaks, and, listening to His voice.

New life the dead receive;

The mournful, broken hearts rejoice;

The humble poor believe.

6. Hear Him. ye deaf: His praise, ye dumb.

Your loosened tongues employed;

Ye blind, behold your Savior come;

And leap, ye lame, lor joy!

PRECIOUSNESS OF JESUS

1. IIow tedious and tasteless the hours
When Jesus no longer I see!

Sweet prospects, sweet birds, and sweet flowers.
Have all lost their sweetness to me;

The mid summer sun shines but dim.

The fields strive in vain to look gay;

But when I am happy in Him,

December’s as pleasant as May.

2. His name yields t lie richest perfume.

And sweeter than music His voice;

His presence disperses mv gloom.

And makes all within me rejoice;

I should, were he always thus nigh.

128

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Have nothing to wish or to fear;

No mortal so happy as I,

Mv summer would last all the vear.

3. Content with beholding his face,

My all to his pleasure resigned.

No changes of season or place

Would make any change in my mind:
While blest with a sense of his love,

A palace a toy would appear;

And prisons would palaces prove.

If Jesus would dwell with me there.

4. My Lord, if indeed I am thine.

If Thou art my sun and my song.

Say, why do I languish and pine?

And why are my winters so long?

0 drive these dark clouds from my sky,

Thy soul-cheering presence restore;

Or take me to Thee up on high.

Where winter and clouds are no more.

— John Newton.

She led in singing: “HAPPY NEW YEAR,” at Watch
Service, January 1, 1870 — just fifty years ago, January 1, 11)2(3.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

1. O TELL me no more of this world’s vain store.

The time for such trifles with me now is o’er;

A country I’ve found where true joys abound,

To dwell I’m determined on that happy ground.

2. The souls that believe in paradise live.

And me in that number will Jesus receive;

Mv soul, don't delav; he calls thee a wav:

Rise, follow thv Savior, and bless the glad day.

3. No mortal doth know what he can hestow.

What light, strength, and comfort — go after him, go;

Lo, onward 1 move to a city above,

None guesses how wondrous mv journey will prove.

4. Great spoils I shall win from death, hell, and sin.

’Midst outward afflictions shall feel Christ within:

And when I'm to die, “Receive me," I'll cry.

For Jesus hath loved me, 1 cannot tell why.

Rut this I do find, we two are so joined.

He'll not live in glory and leave me behind;

ntjw mm y^hah

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

129

So this is the race I’m running through grace.

Henceforth, till admitted to see my Lord’s face.

“He dies! The friend of sinners dies!

Lo! Salem’s daughters weep around;

A solemn darkness vails the skies,

A sudden trembling shakes the ground.”

At Easter, she was noted for singing the above hymn.

She could not read nor write, but she had unbounded
LOVE toward God, and her feliowmen.

She possessed a pleasant, but strong voice that carried
conviction. Her word was her bond. She loved little chil¬
dren. black or white, rich or poor. She was noted for her
great sympathy.

She was one of the seven original members of St. Paul’s
Raptist Church. After being a Methodist for years she was
baptized in May, 1 8(57. The Rladensburg Union buried her.

With these three hymns and others, she kept up her
courage, until victory was won, even over death.

“Our prayer is that every descendant of this loving, faith¬
ful mother— even down to the tenth generation, shall fully
resolve that her God shall be their God. her people shall he
their people.

PLUMMER. A loving tribute and a fond devotion of
50 vears to the memory of our dear parents, Mrs. EMILY
SAUNDERS PLUMMER, who rested from her labors. Janu¬
ary 17, 1X70. and Mr. Adam Francis Plummer, December 15,
1905. whose motto was: “Re thou faithful unto death, and
I will give thee a crown of life.” — Rev. 2:10.

Each brother and sister, each nephew and niece, who ha--
passed, is also foudtv remembered. Henry Vinton, deceas'd
February 10. 1905: Sarah Miranda. March 1, 1905; Nicholas
Saunders, July 2N, 191 1 ; and Margaret Jane, December 1, 1923.
My lost, my own, and I

Shall have so much to see together bv and by.

1 do believe that just the same sweet face.

Rut glorified, is waiting in the place
Where we shall meet, if only I

Am counted worthy in that bv and bv.

% * *

THEIR DEVOTE!) C.1 I [LOREN. ELIAS ().. JULIA A..
ROBERT F.. and NELLIE A. PLUMMER.

January 18, 1920.

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130

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

MAINE’S CONTRIBUTION TOWARD NEGRO

EDUCATION

The Heart, the Head, the Hand. — Isaiah 55:8-9. “For
mv thoughts are not vour thoughts, neither are vour wavs
my ways, saitli the Lord. For as the heavens are higher
than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and
my thoughts than your thoughts.”

When Emily Plummer and her children were sold to
Mary Ann Dorsey-Thompsori, November 25, 1851, they were
brought, as stated, to Meridian Hill, Washington, D. C. They
lived on the same spot that afterward became Wayland Semi¬
nary. The same wells furnished water for that great Negro
school. The property was formerly owned by the Porters,
an English family. When the Thompsons found this to he
“heired property,” they gave it up and moved to Mt. Hebron.

On the northwest corner of the Porter property there
was a tomb, 1 feet by 10 feet, over a grave of one of the Por¬
ters. Father was allowed to bury our little Marjorie Ellen
Rose 8 feet from that tomb, in 1851 — By Way of the Cross!

In 18G2, a young man of fine physique, from Portland,
Me., became a professor at the Maryland Agricultural Col¬
lege, now Maryland University, at College Park, Md., being
a part ot Riverdale. YV hen his politics became known that
he was a sympathizer with John Brown, that Abraham Lin¬
coln was a man after his own heart in preserving the Union
and liberating the slaves, that no man is good or just enough
to own another man, and that the best weapon to put into
the hands of the slaves was Education! tliev paid him his
entire year’s salary just to get rid of him. No abolitionalist
for them!

But our God, who still moves in mysterious ways, moved
then very mysteriously. God released this niightv young
man (mighty in the Spirit ot the Lord), from the College be¬
cause of their blindness to the truth. For their terrible pre¬
judice to the Negro, armed and inspired this “boy” from
Maine to “Go down, Moses, way down in Egypt’s land (South¬
land), and tell old Pharoah (ignorance, superstition, and
hate), to let my people go!”

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

131

Dr. King was born December 12, 1833, in Portland, Me.

He married Miss Mary _ Two sons, Dr. Ernest F. and

Mr. Harry, were born to them.

Prof. King drifted from one pulpit or school to another
until he saw the nucleus for a Negro school. Immediately
he found himself in his preordained habitat.

DR. G. M. P. KING.

132

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR
WAYLAND SEMINARY

Wavland Seminary was opened in 1 Dili
Church, in 1805, under ihe American Raptist Ho
Society of New York City.

Street Raptist
me Missionary

At the same time (1805), National Theological Institute
was opened, Washington, I). C., in Louisiana Avenue. 1807,
Dr. King was appointed President of N. T. I. In 1800, Way-
land Seminary and N. T. I. united under the A. R. II. M. S.,
with Dr. King as President, and with the name Wavland
Seminary, in a building on I Street, opposite 10th Street Rap¬
tist Church, named for Dr. Francis Wayland, who did so
much to make it possible. In 1870, new building on Meridian
Hill, near 10th Street, completed and occupied. 1800, Way-
land Seminary and Richmond Theological Seminary united
under the name of Virginia Union University at Richmond.

WAYLAND SEMINARY — (1887) — SHOWING COBURN MALL
15th and Chapin Sts. N. W., M eridian Hill, Washington, D. C.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

133

ANNUAL CATALOGUE
of

VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY
Combining

Wayland Seminary, opened in 1865, in Washington, D. C.

and

Richmond Theological Seminary, opened in 1865, in

Richmond, Va.

Member of the

Association of Colleges for Negro Youth

1616-1917

FACULTY OF THE UNIVERSITY
George Rice Ilovey, A. M., I). IT, President

College Faculty. — George Rice Ilovey, A. M., D. D., Psy¬
chology and Ethics; G. M. P. King, A. M., 1). I)., Emeritus
Professor of English Literature; Joshua R. Simpson, A. M.,
Pli. 1)., Greek Literature and Sociology; J. E. Jones, A. M.,
1). 1)., Bible and Elocution; John V\T. Barco, A. B., Latin Lan¬
guage and Literature and History; Peter J. Henry, A. B., LL.
B., French; J. M. Sampson, A. B., English and German; Win.
J. Clark, A. R., English Literature; Chas. E. Hadley, A. B.,
Physical Science; Roland Wakelield, A. B., Mathematics; Mer¬
ton P. Robinson, A. B.. Teacher Training;.

Theological Faculty. — George Rice Ilovey, A. M., D. I).,
Theology; Joseph E. Jones, A. M„ 1). IX, Homiletics, English
Interpretation and Church Polity; George M. P. King, A. M.,
1). I)., Sacred Rhetoric; John \Y. Barco, A. B„ Hebrew; Cor¬
nelius E. Schaible, A. M., B. I)., Greek Interpretation; William
J. Clark, A. B., B. I)., Church History and Biblical Introduc¬
tion.

Academy Faculty. — Joseph E. Jones, A. M„ 1). D„ History
Bible and Elocution; Emily F. Ames, English Literature,
Latin and French; Ella S. Fori. Pedagogy, Arithmetic and
Grammar; Peter J. Henry, A. B., LL. B., French History,
Bookkeeping and Commercial Law; Chas. E. Hadley, A. B.,
Physical Sciences; Roland Wakelield, A. B„ Mathematics;
Merlon P. Robinson. A. B., History and Mathematics; Kate
E. Gale, Bible; Charles T. Bussell, W ood Work and Drawing.

134

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Other University Officers. — Charles T. Russell, Superin¬
tendent of Grounds; Kate E. Gale, Head Matron; William J.
Clark, A. B., B. D., Librarian; Miles R. Jones, M. 1)., School
Physician; Merton P. Robinson, A. B., Physical Director;
Lucie Ludlow, Secretary; Addie L. Rice, President’s Assistant.

The following students have served as assistant teachers:
A. W. Adkins, E. E. Smith, V. E. Perkins, F. W. Jacobs, J. W.
Broadus, G. W. C. Brown, W. A. Hall, J. S. Johnson, C. H.
Thompson, J. M. Ellison, W. L. Campbell, 1). W. Davis, A. 1).
Manning, S. D. Spady, H. S. Stanback, J. A. Bacoats, R. F.
Ovelton, C. M. Wood.

PROF. AND MRS. G. M. P. KING

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

135

DEDICATED TO VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY

and

ITS OLD STUDENTS
Air: “Fair Harvard.”

Dear Union, vour sons to liiv festivals conic,

And with praises, as often before,

They’ll crown thee with laurels again here tonight
And bring thee glad offerings once more.

Oh, treasure and gift of good friends of the past.

We’ll long keep thy memory warm —

Best proof of their wisdom, the hope of t heir sons.

Like sunshine long after a storm.

Oh, when as thy sons we come hack to these scenes.

To what mem’ries our greetings give birth —

Thy walks are still dearer, thy shades more complete.

Still prized for their beauty and worth.

May thy honor and fame in all coming time
Be guarded by dear, loving care —

May thy influence spread all over our land
That millions thv blessings mav share.

We picture the progress that comes through our care.

The progress in true learning and truth.

In which all of us — richest and poorest — may share.

In the blessing and saving our youth.

Then hail, dear V. U. U„ our much loved, our own —

Of thy virtues and worth we will tell.

Till thy value shall world-wide and always be known.

And thy name hold a magical spell.

We’ll remember the struggles of earlier days,

The faith and true loyalty of friends;

While .forward, right forward, with courage' sincere.

And thus we shall reach our high ends.

Let the way that’s before us be glowing with light.

Better way than our fathers e’er trod.

For thy wants we will alwav and gladly provide.

And thus honor ourselves and our God.

Geo. M. P. King,

formerly of Dear Old Wa viand Seminary.
George Marion Prentiss King! One of the world’s great¬
est educators. He searched for and trained the brain, heart,
mind, hand, and soul of all -black or white, poor or rich.
He was a typical God-man!

Nellie A. Plummer.

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136

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

For more Ilian fifty years, George Marion Prentiss
King gave his time, his talent, strength, and influence toward
the work that has done more to bless and make content 10
millions of Americans directly, as well as all other millions
indirectly, than any other I know, not excepting Gen. Arm¬
strong of Hampton fame. The Spirit of the Lord was upon
him (Luke 4:18).

Prof. King did not stand in the pulpit only and declare
the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man, but he
exemplified it. as hundreds of white ministers, teachers, and
philanthropists, as well as thousands of colored ministers
and teachers now living can testify.

In politics, he stood by every force that meant the pre¬
servation of the Union. He had a Savior for all! The high,
the low, the rich, the poor, the black, the white — work, work,
work! Work to the best advantage for the good of all! lie
dignified work (Labor).

George Marion Prentiss King possessed a wonderful per¬
sonality. I think no one who was ever in conversation with
him even for one day, to say nothing of living under his in¬
fluence for three, four, or five years, but was forced to ac¬
knowledge that lie was “A Master in Israel.” lie wrote
thousands of letters, lectures, plays, dialogues, sermons,
poems, etc., with which he fought the battles of the Lord,
reaching miles and miles away.

Whenever he wrote a dialogue for our public or private
debate, we used to wonder how he knew which part would
suit each one. He never failed to depict our characters, in
such a manner as to help cure any selfishness, or strengthln
any good trails already developing.

A great “Professor,” as we used to call him.

Of all the stalwart sons of Maine, I think for keen vision,
for intent of purpose, for ability, to work to an advantage, for
making a lasting impression, for faith in the ultimate triumph
ot justice lor all, for truth and honesty, for a sterling char¬
acter that shown brighter and brighter to the close of his long
and useful file, he stands out preeminent! ’Twas he who
undertook the most unpopular cause (the elevation of the
Negro by developing a Christian characater through educa¬
tion and contact with his white brother), and so dignified it
that Negro schools, churches, and colleges sprung up as if by

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

137

magic, there being no trouble to get worthy and well pre¬
pared white persons to foster the work until Negroes were
capable of heading it.

When you visit our church, as I hope you will real soon,
you will see a silver service of two goblets and pitcher with
a lid. It was the set from which communion was served to

MISS J. M. BARTLETT.— Teacher.

Norfolk, Portsmouth, Wayland Seminary, Orphans Home.

to his grandparents and parents in Paris, near Portland, Me.
We now use them for water. We treasure the gift.

In physique. Professor King was tall, large, light brown
hair, wore a mustache, had blue eves, and a most agreeable
voice. He weighed between two and three hundred pounds.
So well proportioned was he that he never seemed too stout,
but was as handy and quick as one could wish.

He dearly loved all nature, sun, moon, stars, trees, plants,
flowers, birds, animals, and little children, as well as youth,
and grown people. His devotion to Mrs. King and their two
boys was equal to his great strength and energy for his work.
Hence his great insight in human nature, llad we, his stu-

138

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

dents, been his natural sons and daughters, lie couldn't have
shown more sympathy, nor striven the more to impress us
with the truth, for you know, the truth makes one free. His
watchful care over us, from the least to the greatest, in all
things, and at all times, could not he excelled by any teacher.

He thoroughly believed that man was God's best work,
and set himself to help that race which was most neglected.

I love to think of them as my white father and mother.
For they were, indeed, intellectually and spiritually so. Hav¬
ing entered Wayland, September. 1875, I lost mv beloved
mother the following January. Being the first time, I was
away from home, you see what a task they had to help soothe
my sorrow, and interest me in my studies. How well they
succeeded, I leave you to say. One other test for Professor
King: Whether his wife, his sons, his teachers or his students,
bis will and wishes were supreme. Two teachers. Misses
Webb and Wood, wore very beautiful women. Miss Wood
later became the wife of his son. Dr. Ernest F. King. Of the
students. Misses Emma Curtis (later Mrs. John McDougald
of Philadelphia, Pa.). Yieloria Taylor (Mrs. Bell, 109 O St.
N. W., Washington, D. C.), and Savana James (now Mrs.
Lavana James-Moss, 1515 S St. X. W., Washington. D. C.),
were the most beautiful. Savana James easily taking first place
of teachers or pupils. And vet, in the midst of all that beau¬
tiful young life, there never was a hint, nor shadow of sus¬
picion on Prof. King’s part. Knowing now, as I didn’t know
then, I say he was a Cod-man.

I cherish I he letters, poems, etc., sent me by him since I
let t Wayland in 1879, next to my Bible.

1 also bless that dav in early fall, 1875, when my mother
visited Prof. King, and toM him how she and Henry were
slaves on that verv spn|, 18.) 1-1 8. >5. how the same wells fur¬
nished them water. Now her Henry was a student there.
When Prof. King inquired about the rest of the children, she
told him she had two babies, just 15 years old, “While mv
husband can’t spare the boy. I wish you would take the girl
and try to make something of her.” Dr. King thought the
girl too young and inexperienced, etc., ns he had no matron,
etc. As mother was leaving he said: “Send the little girl
over. I’ll trv. Mavbo Mrs. King will help me to look after
her.” Mother’s story had touched his sympathy, and I was

P.U M

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

139

taken on trial. “O happy day that fixed my choice on Thee,
my Savior, and my God!”

I quote from catalogue of “Wayland Seminary and Col¬
lege,” 1898-1890: “The school is the work of Northern Bap¬
tists, through the American Baptist Home Mission Society,
and of Rev. G. M. P. King, D. D., who put his brain, and
heart, and very life into it.” I am a witness that the half
that he did can never be told!

I know of no words that describe Dr. King as "Beautiful
Things.”

THE TARBELL HOME, MILFORD. N. H.

Miss J. M. Bartlett lived with her sister here.

110

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

BEAUTIFUL THINGS

Beautiful faces are those that wear.

It matters little if dark or fair.

Whole soul honestly printed there.

Beautiful eyes are those that show

Like crystal panes where hearth-fires glow.
Beautiful thoughts that burn below.

Beautiful lips are those whose words

Leap from the heart like songs of birds;

Yet whose utterance prudence shows.

Beautiful hands are those that do

The work that is earnest, and brave, and true,
Moment by moment the long day through.
Beautiful feet are those that go

On kindly ministries to and fro,

Down lowest ways if God wills so.

Beautiful shoulders are those that bear
Ceaseless burdens of homely care.

With patient grace, and daily prayer.

Beautiful lives are those that bless.

Silent rivers of happiness
Whose hidden fountain but few may guess.
Beautiful twilight at set of sun;

Beautiful goal with race well run;

Beautiful rest with work well done.

Beautiful graves where grasses creep;

Where brown leaves fall;

Where drifts lie deep.

O’er worn out hands;

0! beautiful sleep.

This is what
passing:

“The Crisis” had to say of Dr. King at his
A MISSIONARY

The Rev. G. M. P. King, 1). 1)., Professor at Virginia Union
University, died October <X at Christionsburg, Ya. (1017).

With the passing of Dr. King, the colored people have
lost a tried and true friend. From the pastorate of a northern
church. Dr. King, at the outbreak of the Civil War, entered
the service of the United States Christian Commission, whose
work during the Civil War corresponded very closely to the
present war work of the V. M. C. A. At the close of the war,

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

141

feeling the need of the colored people, he gave himself to
work among them, serving under the auspices of the Ameri¬
can Raptist Home Mission Society from then until the time
of his death. For many years he was president of Wavland
Seminary at Washington, D. C., and when that school united
with Richmond Theological Seminary to form Virginia Union
University, he moved to Richmond and has served there con-
tinuouslv.

HIS FULNESS

His Fulness! What a blessed thought!

What joys with it are richly fraught!
What emptiness offset by this!

Find here true source of constant bliss.

If loneliness comes stealing round.

Here best companionship is found.

Which brings to one angelic friends;

This for our losses makes amends.

If lack of strength should mark a day.

And cause dark clouds to shade our way;
Here aid complete is freely given

To make the helps and burdens even.
Should early friendships seem to fail.

And human loves begin to pale;

Just here, is found the truest friend.

Whose perfect love can never end.

Then, to this fulness we will turn,

And from its helpfulness, ever learn.

How we a likeness may attain.

To Him who is the eternal gain.

Why then impoverished this life.

When with such fulness it is rife?

While richer joys, and greater strength
Will be our lot, we’re sure at length.

G. M. P. King.

Richmond, Va., March 1, 1017.

The above poem is probably the last one composed by
I)r. King, as he died October X, 1017, at Christiansburg, Va.,
where he had gone to attend an anniversav for a former stu¬
dent, just as he wanted to come to us in 101 (i. Having been
born December 12, 18.‘>d, he was nearly 84 years old. “0!
beautiful sleep!”

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142

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

SILENT INFLUENCE

There’s something round me, what I cannot tell.
That ever practices its secret spell;

It warns of wrong, it councils to the right;

In everything I do, I feel its might.

All through these struggling years it’s been the same
I hardly know its source, or what its name;

Blit some day I shall hope to find out why
It ever guards me with a watchful eye.

In all I do it seeks to have a part.

It surely knows that ruling is an art;

For when some by-path opens to my way.

It tells me plainly, “That will lead astray.”

Its influence the years cannot abate;

Its mission is for love, not hate,

And, like the whispering wind, ’ t is everywhere,

To heighten joys, and lighten every care.

Like fragrance from a near-by field of dowers.

It sheds itself all through the passing hours;

And never seems to have a selfish thought.

But seeks to make each deed with blessings frail
And seeking for its source, I seem to find

No narrow limits keep it close confined,

But from all the good that’s blessed my past.

This silent influence surely comes at last.

Oh, for this most gracious help and power.

Let us he thankful in everv trial hour.

And then with good, not ill, shall all be rife.

Throughout the course and conduct of our life.

Richmond, Ya.

G. M. P. King.

•Ylil loo 1 » i mwim him o<nuoi* oil) luodftiJO'Hl 1

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

143

1913.

DEAR UNION

Air: America

Of V. U. U. we sing.

Long may her praises ring
Through all l lie land;

Sound out her words of praise,
Monuments to her raise.

Make her light brightly blaze
On all around.

We prize her walks and shades.
Her many helps and aids,

Dear Union, fair.

We love her rooms and halls.
We’ll answer all her calls.

Thus honor on her falls:

Dear Union, fair.

Now let us all unite
And serve her with our might,
Our own V. U.

Long may she shed her light,
Sustaining only right;

Keep duty plain in sight,

Our own V. U.

And thus we’ll sound her praise
Through all the coming days,
The land around;

That loving all mankind,

She sought to ever iiml
Some good in ev’rv mind.

Blest V. U. U.

May blessings on her rest.

The richest and the best;
Heaven’s choice gifts.

May wisdom be her guide.

May truth with her abide.

While vears shall gentlv glide,

with V. U. IT.

G. M. P. K.

in q v 1 1 !) q' o/J

JJ JJ V illiV/

144

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

As it would require a large volume of more than 500
pages to describe what is in my mind of that Great Man,
I must not try to do so here. But will close with “Long
live” the influence of I)r. King!”

Is it anv wonder then, that Wavland Seminarv became
the great school that it did under his matchless influence?

64 Walnut Street, Buffalo, N. Y.

November 21, 1913.

My dear Fellow Alumnus and Friends:

No doubt you know I)r. G. M. P. King will celebrate his
eightieth birthday, December 12, 1913.

We are trying very hard to secure funds, about $100 and
erect a gate at the entrance of the Campus at Virginia Union
University as a memorial to him. The main feature of the
gate will be two granite posts and bronze slabs or plates with
a hit of history concerning the work of Dr. King among the
Afro-American people. The University will supervise the
erecting of the gate. You will kindly send your donation to
Rev. Dr. Win. .1. Howard, 100 Massachusetts Avenue, Wash¬
ington, I). C. Let us try to have the needed amount in by
December 15th, so that everything may he done decently and
in order.

This work has the endorsement of Dr. Moorehousc and
Dr. Hovey.

Please notify me when you send your donation to Dr.
Howard telling me the amount you have donated.

We are vours verv trulv.

Booker T. Washington,
R. .1. Langston,

Eliza H. Mack,

Win. J. Howard,

Nellie A. Plummer,

A. Clayton Powell,

W .M. Alexander,

W. F. Graham.

J. Edward Nash, Sccretarv.

.{'inlTioo# ,iU sft/1 J/icv/K f

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

145

DEDICATION OF

KING GATEWAY

VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY

June 3, 1911, at 1 O’clock P. M.

ORDER OF EXERCISES

PRAYER

ORCHESTRA — Professor J. M. Sampson, Leader

Rev. J. Edward Nash, D. D.
_ _ Rev. A. Binga, Jr., D. D.

SONG

Air: “Fair Harvard”

Dear Union when thy sons come back to these scenes.

To what mem’ries their greetings give birth —
Thy walks are still dearer, thy shades more complete.
Still prized for their beauty and worth.

May thv honor and fame in all coming time
Be guarded by dear, loving care —

May thy influence spread all over our land
That millions thy blessings may share.

We’ll remember the struggles of earlier days.

The faith and true loyalty of friends;

While forward, right forward, with courage sincere.

And thus we shall reach our high ends.

Let the way that’s before us be glowing with light.
Better way than our fathers e’er trod.

For thy wants we will always most gladly provide.

And thus honor ourselves and our God.

. . Rev. G. M. P. King, D. D.

Pres. George Rice Ilovey, D. D.

Rev. R. J. Langston, R. D.

v fill T»ih* ► it) in *>rl! no«lmTwm H'oW
,oiocnia ^jr/unn riti// j.n /nol ,fni;7/*M>t olulV/

.bo ) iuobnfc ^r/f'vmo lonofl am!) bn A

S^iHCHJA

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146

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR
SONG

1913.

Air: “America”

Of V. U. U. we sing.

Long may her praises ring
Through all the land;

Sound out her words ot praise,
Monuments to her raise.

Make her light brightly blaze
On all around.

And thus we’ll sound her praise
Through all the coming days,
The land around;

That loving all mankind,

She sought to ever find
Some good in ev’ry mind.

Blest V. U. U.

May blessings on her rest.

The richest and the best;

Heaven’s choice gifts.

May wisdom be her guide.

May truth with her abide.

While vears shall gently glide.
With V. U. U.

BENEDICTION

THE WAYLAND SPIRIT

Wayland Seminary, now Virginia Union University, was
located on Meridian Ilill. Washington, 1). C., Kith and Clifton
Streets N. W. Its situation afforded a commanding view
of the city, the Potomac, and surrounding country. The
school was established in 18bf>, under the direction and fos¬
tering care of the American Baptist Home Mission Societv,
N. Y. C.

Its object was to afford an opportunity for securing a
thorough education at the smallest possible expense. The
purpose was to assist in the great work of providing preachers
and teachers for the colored South from their own race, and,
at the same time, prepare the way for mission work in Africa.

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•, i • ' ! 1 •• ' : '

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

147

Old Wayland was a Christian Home. The dispositions and
capacities of the students carefully studied (as Dr. G. M. P.
King only could do), his aim being to assist in making what
seemed to have been planned.

Students who were not ambitious, and who disliked hard
work, contenting themselves with superficial attainments,
were not made to feel at home in that school.

All applicants were required to furnish certificates of
good character. Students must sustain consistent Christian

PROF. JAMES STORUM.

Wayland Seminary, Public Schools, D. C.

character, and make satisfactory progress in study. All were
taught to be self-reliant, by withholding help from those who
could help themselves. Such rules were enforced as were
found necessary to the highest interests of the school. No
studnt was allowed to smoke, chew, or use spirituous liquors.
The hours for study were faithfully observed. The place
was a Home, and such habits were cultivated, and such con-

■

148

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

duct maintained, as did fill the place with elevating and re¬
fining influences. Success calls for gratitude, and gratitude
finds its best expression in those efforts that aim to secure
a large measure of success. Dr. King said: “That character
is noblest that follows God’s plan for its dcvelopmen: with
the greatest fidelity. This school recognizes its obligations
to a Divine care, and here is its confidence, as it goes forward
to the toils and victories of the future!”

“Be all you seem to be, aim to be more than you seem
to be,” was and is our Motto.

Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” was
made flesh and dwelt among us at Wayland. Whether be¬
tween teacher or pupil, or pupil and pupil, it was the same.
We loved each other dearly. We became a great brother¬
hood and sister-hood, with our teachers as parents. It has
been 51 years since I entered Dear Old Wayland. Each stu¬
dent that I met there is of precious memory. Just for one
to say: “I was a student at Wayland,” is sufficient to awaken
kindred ties, too near and dear to be described. Recall, if
you can, the old time love and respect we used to have for
an older brother or sister, and vou will have an idea of the
“Spirit of Wayland.”

Today Mrs. John Henderson reigns supreme on Meridian
Hill, where dear Old Wayland once stood.

This is the widow of the late Senator Henderson from
Missouri, who was author of 18th and 1 1th Amendment to
the Constitution, is so immensely rich, can afford to give
Government home for our Vice President. Government
did not accept. Mansion so grand as to require more than
$15,000 per year for upkeep.

Wayland, though removed, is not dead. V. U. U. is
making wonderful strides toward the highest and best edu¬
cation. Long live the Spirit of Wayland Seminary!

We couldn’t speak of the “Spirit” of Wayland, without
mentioning those who helped Prof. King to create that

HP ■ 'i H *

Spirit.

^ .2 iarSL^U.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

149

During 1875-1879, Prof. James Storum of Buffalo, N. Y.,
was second teacher in authority. He was not so large nor
tall as Prof. King, but was well proportioned, light brown
curly hair, beautiful teeth, and of a golden color. He was
Professor of Greek and Latin. He was librarian. Many
young men were inspired by his quiet, gentlemanly bearing,
a Christian gentleman hardly describes him, to me he seemed
a little more, a finished scholar! Many who read this may
have known him as teacher in the M Street High School, where
he taught many years after Wayland was transferred to
Richmond, October, 1899.

So faithfully did these three, Dr. King, Prof. Storum,
and Miss Bartlett work, that they were able to care for the
entire school (94), that year, with the assistance of some of
the advanced students.

MISS SAREPTA STORUM.
The Joy of Orphans home

150

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CATALOGUE of WAYLAND SEMINARY, 1877-1878

FACULTY

Rev. G. M. P. King, A. M„ President; James Storum, A.
M., Professor, Academic Department; Miss Julia M. Bart¬
lett, Associate Teacher; James Storum, A. M„ Librarian.

Assistants. — A. Francis Greene, Teacher of Penmanship;
Thomas H. Williams. Teacher of Vocal Music; Nellie A. Plum¬
mer, Assistant, Normal Department.

STUDENTS

Banks, C. J. C. _

Berkley, Rolvt. _

Brookins, Chas. R.
Brown, Royal H.
Brown, Tilgman ..
Burril, Win. R.
Carey, R. 1 lenrv ....

Theological Department

_ Washington, D. C.

_ Culpepper C. II. , Ya.

_ University of Virginia

_ Philadelphia, Pa.

_ Queen Anne’s Co., Md.

_ New Bedford, Mass.

_ Cambridge, Mass.

Clements, Thos. J. _ Lynchburg, Ya.

Deans, David C. _ _ _ Newsom’s Depot, Ya.

Dennis, James A. _ . _ _ Pamplin City, Va.

Gordon, Alexander _ _ _ _ Louisa Co., Ya.

Hamilton, Alex. _ _ _ .... Prince George Co., Ya.

Harris, John _ Salisbury, Md.

Hepburn, Chas. H. _ Mecklenburg Co., Ya.

Holmes. Wm. O. _ _ _ _ _ _ Detroit. Mich.

Jones, Thomas H _ _ Bunker’s Hill, Ya.

Johnson. Wm. B. . . . . . . Toronto, Ontario. Canada

Liverpool, King D. . . . . . . . . .. Alexandria, Ya.

Payne, Wm. .. _ _ _ _ _ _ Philadelphia, Pa.

Pierce, Stewart C. _ _ _ _ _ Oak Grove, Ya.

Porter, Rufus H. _ _ _ _ Wythe Co., Ya.

Powell, Holland . . . . . . . Middlesex Co., Ya.

Pryor, Chas. N. . . Georgetown, D. C.

Pryor, John 11. . . . . Falls Church, Ya.

Robinson, James . . Washington, D. C.

Robinson. Mathew . . . Wanesboro, Ya.

Terry, John W. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ... Chicago. Ill.

Tolliver, John T . . . . Washington, D. C.

Turner, Wm. II . . . Richmond, Ya.

Washi ngton, Samuel . Washington. D. C.

Webb, John H. . . . . Alexandria, Ya.

Young, Archcy C. . . . Surrey Co., Ya,

bric.uon .iiiwo((

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

151

Academic Department

Berger, Tapley S. D. _ Christiansburg, Va.

Deans, David C. _ _ _ Newsom’s Depot, Va.

Greene, A. Francis _ Washington, D. C.

Pryor, Chas. N. _ _ — . . - Georgetown, I). C.

Robinson, Rob’t. E. _ Middlesex Co., Va.

Washington, Rooker T. _ _ _ Malden, W. Va.

James, Bella S. _ _ _ Washington, D. C.

Shewalter, Victoria V. _ Washington, D. C.

Baker, Peter A. _

Bailey, Preston B.

Banks, C. J. C. _

Berkley, Robt. _

Brown, Edmund B.
Brown, Royal H. ...

Normal Department

- Columbus, Miss.

- - Cincinnati, Ohio

_ _ _ _ - Washington, D. C.

_ _ _ Culpepper C. H., Va.

- - - Boston, Mass.

- Philadelphia, Pa.

MISS BESSIE E. GARDNER

Missionary to Lukungu Mission. Congo Independent State,
West Africa, 1892, — a Waylandite.

152

OUT OF TIIF DEPTHS, OR

Brown, Tilghman -

Brown, Alfred _

Brown, Frank P. _

Brookins, Clias. R. _

Brooks, Daniel L. _

Burke, Millard F. _

Burke, Wm. P. _

Burril, Win. R. _

Carey, R. Henry _

Clement, Thos. J. _

Clinton, Arthur W. _

Coleman, Wm. II. _

Curry, Geo. E. _

Daniel, Allen P. _

Deans, Allen _

Dennis, James A. _

Duncan, Joseph E. _

Fletcher, Hamilton W.

Freeman, Thos. J. _

Gordon, Alexander _

Hamilton, Alexander __
Ilardmond. George W.

Harris, John _

Hephurn, Clias. 11. _

Hilton, Hampton F. ____

Holmes, Wm. O. _ _

Ishel, Pleasant A. _

Jones, Thos. II. _

Jones, James G. _

Jones, Thomas I). _

Johnson, Wm. B. _

Johnson, William _

Lane, John W _ _

Liverpool, King D . .

Me, Norton. II. Fleming

Minn is, Ilenrv . .

Morrison, Ambrose G.
Munce, Wm. II.
Murphy, Alfred C.

Payne, Win. _

Pierce, Stewart C .

Porter, Rufus II .

_ Queen Anne’s Co., Md.

_ Washington, D. C.

_ University of Va.

_ New York

_ Gatesville, N. C.

_ New Bedford, Mass.

_ Cambridge, Mass.

- _ Lynchburg, Ya.

_ Front Royal, Ya.

... Hampden Sid. Coll., Va.

_ Lewisburg, W. Ya.

_ Raleigh Co., W. Ya.

_ Portsmouth, Va.

- . - Pamplin City, Ya.

_ Elmira, N. Y.

_ _ Georgetown, I). C.

_ _ - Lynchburg, Ya.

. . .—Louisa Co., Ya.

Prince George’s Co., Ya.

- Richmond, Ya.

. Salisbury, Md.

_ Mecklenburg Co., Va.

~ Hampden Sid. Coll., Ya.

. Detroit, Mich.

. — Lynchburg, Ya.

- . — . Bunker’s Hill, Va.

. . . Piscataway, Md.

- . Holly Springs, Mass.

Toronto, Ontario. Canada

. - . Louisa C. II., Va.

. — . Washington, 1). C.

. . Alexandria, Ya.

. Chrisliansburg, Ya.

. Washington, 1). C.

. Prince George Co., Va.

. Bristol. Pa.

. Rochester, N. Y*

. . Philadelphia, Pa.

. Oak Grove, Ya.

- Wythe Co., Ya.

lioD MU Holnjini 1

miiilli’// .H '/mlol.

.1) .<1 ,iiotyniiI«i;V/ -

J) HliW'-ii* JWI'ji I

■ I

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

153

Powell, Holland _

Pryor, Clias. X. _

Prvor, John II. _

Randolph, Edwin A. _

Randolph, Warner _

Reed, John _

Reese, William _

Robinson, James _

Robinson, Mathew _

Scott, Walter A. _

Smith, Wilford H. _

Sprague, Alfred J. _

Tabb, Ren jam in _

Terry, John W. _

Tilghman. Lafayette A.

Tolliver, Cvrus _

Tolliver, John T.

Turner. Wm. II. _

Usher, James L. _

Vanderhoop, Edwin I).
Washington, Hooker T.
Washington, Samuel .....
Webb, John II.

While, Isaac II.
Williams, Thomas 1 1.
Williams, Joseph
Young, A rehoy 0. ...
Chappell. Rellie
Daniels, Katie
Drumgold, Katie C.
Oassawav. Maddelia I).
James, Rella S.

Jay, Annie _ _ _

Logain, Cora J. . .

Molen, Fannie A .

Moten. Lucy J.
Plummer, Nellie A.
Shewalter, Victoria V.

Smith, Eva E. . .

Snoider, ('ora R.
Washington, Maggie A.
Syphax, Maria R .

.... Middlesex Co., Ya.
..... Georgetown, I). C.

_ Falls Church, Ya.

_ Richmond, Ya.

_ Baltimore, Md.

_ Petersburg. Ya.

_ Washington, 13. C.

_ Wanesboro, Ya.

.... Chris tiansburg, Ya.

_ Leota, Miss.

_ Rochester, X. Y.

_ Hampton, Ya.

_ Chicago, Ill.

_ Evansville. Ind.

_ New York

_ Washington, D. C.

_ Richmond, Ya.

_ Albany, X. Y.

... _ _ Gav Head, Mass.

_ Maldin, W. Ya.

.... Washington. I). C.

_ Alexandria, Ya.

... Chatham. Ya.
Washington, D. C.
Richmond, Kv.
Surrey Co., Ya.
Haiti more. Md.
.... Washington. I). C.

Rrooklyn, X. Y.
... Washington, 1). C.
. . Washington. I). C.

_ Morristown, X. J.

. . Syracuse. X. J.

_ Alexandria, Ya.

- . Alexandria, Va.

Rladensburg. Md.
Washington, 1). C.
... Mount Yernon. Ya.
... Charleston, W. Ya.

Pilot, Va.
. Washington, D. C.

vbjiijl.'* till* l

.. i! :• ' - * i ii

..) .Cl V

) *>i . .i >!< iir in

.it

154

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CLASS OF ’78
Theological Department

Robert Berkley, Rufus II. Porter, Chas. II. Hepburn,
Holland Powell.

Normal Department

Allen P. Daniel, Geo. W. Hardmond. Edwin A. Randolph,
Edwin I). Yandcrhoop, Annie Jay, Tlios. J. Freeman, Rufus
H. Porter, WTalter A. Scott. Clins. X. Pryor, Nellie Plummer,
Victoria V. Shewalter. Chas. II. Hepburn, Holland Powell,
Tlios. II. Williams, Delia S. James, Eva E. Smith.

Whole number of students _ _ _ 91

Location

This Seminary is located on Meridian Hill, Washington,
D. C. Its situation affords a commanding view of the city
and the surrounding countrv.

History

This School has been established nearly thirteen years;
it is under (he direction and fostering care of the American
Baptist Home Mission Society.

Design

The object is to afford an opportunity for securing a
thorough education at the smallest possible expense. The
purpose is to assist in the great work of providing preachers
and teachers for the South, and at the same time to prepare
t he way for the mission work which must, ere long, be un¬
dertaken for t lie m l'ions in Africa who are now surrounded
bv intelectua! and moral darkness. The School is a Chris¬
tian Home. The di mositions and capacities of the students
are carefully studied, and the aim is to assist in making what
seems to have been nkmnnd. Students who are not ambi¬
tious, and who dislike bard work, contenting themselves with
suncrficial attainments, are not made to feel at home in this
School.

Motto of the School

“Re all that you seem to he, aim to be more than you
seem to he.”

■

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

155

Admission

All applicants must furnish certificates of good moral
character. Students coming from other schools must bring
a recommendation from such schools. All must be ready
readers, and have some acquaintance with arithmetic, spell¬
ing, and writing.

Beneficiaries

Those who design to become preachers, recommended by
the Baptist Church to which they belong, can receive such
assistance as will enable them to enjoy all the advantages of
the School. Students thus assisted must sustain consistent
Christian characters, and make satisfactory progress in study.

Calendar

The school-year commences the last Wednesday of Sep¬
tember, and closes the last Wednesday of May. There is a
vacation of the ten days preceding New Years. The annual
examination occupies the live days preceding the close of the
school-year. Examination for admission, Tuesday before
the last Wednesday of September.

Expenses

For the year, in advance _ _ _ _ $50.00

Board per month, in advance . . . 6.25

Students provide for their washing, lights, and books.

Literary Society

The Wavland Literary Union meets every Friday even¬
ing. There are also public literary exercises each Wednesday
afternoon, in which all the School, in their turn, participate.

Library

This contains nearly eighteen hundred volumes. The
most valuable contribution during the past year came from
Ihe librarv of the late Dr. Babcock, of Poughkeepsie, N. Y.,
through the kindness of his daughters. X. P. Kemp, of Bos¬
ton, and Wm. E. Mathews, T.L.D., of Chicago, have also made
contributions. We have a Library Fund, for which we solicit
donations. We are confident that our library would be in¬
creased more rapidly if the friends of good reading would but
remember our necessities.

.T-Klm io X‘d>#9 il'»V V oril

■

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•nVilifcp.ooon wo ‘I'xfifisrrm

156

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Endowment

In this essential, there lias only been the merest begin¬
ning. For this the friends of the School have yet to provide.

Students’ Home

There are accommodations for eighty boarders — the
rooms are neatly furnished. The students take entire care
of the dining room, the halls, and their own rooms. If a
student wishes to be excused from his share of this responsi¬
bility, he must meet the expense of providing some one to
take his place.

Rules

At the opening of each term, students are made acquaint¬
ed with the regulations which have been deemed necessary
to the highest interests of the School. No student connected
with the School is allowed to smoke or chew tobacco, or to
use spiritous liquors. The hours for study are to be faith¬
fully observed. The place is to be a Home, and such habits
are to be cultivated, and such conduct maintained, as shall
fill the place with elevating and refining influences.

MISS ELLA P. KING— A Waylandite

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

157

COURSE OF STUDY

Normal Department

This course extends through three years, and embraces
the following studies: Reading, Spelling, Penmanship,
Arithmetic (Mental and written). Algebra. Bookkeeping,
Grammar, Analysis, Composition, Rhetoric, Geography, His¬
tory, Physiology, and Science of Government.

Academic Department

Three years are required for this course, and the follow¬
ing are the studies pursued: Algebra, Geometry, Trigonome¬
try, Natural Philosophy, English Analysis, Rhetoric, Logic,
Physical Geography. Chemistry, Latin (Caesar and Cicero's
Orations, Virgil, and Latin Prose Composition), Greek (Read¬
er. Prose Composition. Anabasis and Greek Testament-Gos¬
pels), Mental Philosophy, Moral Philosophy, and Butler’s
Analogy.

Theological Department

Students for the ministry devote a part of each dav to
Bible studies, during their entire course of study. This
course includes the reading and studv of the Miracles, Book
of Acts, Pastoral Epistles and the Epistle to the Hebrews.
Biblical Geography, Interpretation of Scripture, Evidences of
Christianity, Systematic Theology. Church History, Prepara-
tionof Sermons, and Church Polity.

\\ rayland Seminary

In recalling the history of this School for the eleven
years that we have been watching its growth, we find re¬
peated occasions for giving thanks. There has been a real
Growth. Some may have been templed to complain that the
School has not grown more rapidlv. Healthful growth in a
work so groat and so difficult as that undertaken bv this
School must, from necessity, be slow. A succession of
seasons and much faithful labor is necessary to make the
long neglected field permanently productive. This fact the
School has endeavored to remember while it has toiled for
such a growth of principle and thought as shall hear only the
good fruits of intelligent hoiv living. Our former students
are doing noble work as pastors, missionaries, and teachers.

jjn !>r*vi orlJ rjbul Kii oatifOD

. v • f » • f r i *> torn n v/ ns Jon Aiui Urn thZ

I nn ‘tititw hq lo clty/cna a than

lf)8

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Three have engaged in earnest work for their people living
in the Indian Territory. The Churches are asking for an
educated ministry: the schools desire teachers thoroughly
qualified.

During the past year the School has been placed under
renewed obligation to J. W. Parker, D. D., for a most excellent
course of lectures upon “Pastoral Duties.”

We are still conscious that more work should be under¬
taken for female education. We greatly need another build'
ing, that shall be devoted exclusively to the young women
who are asking for an education. We cannot assume respon¬
sibility of attempting so little in the work of female education.
It is ours to make the demands for the work known, and then
to use faithfully such means as are placed at our disposal.

The building has been full throughout the year, and a
large number of applicants have been obliged to wait for
vacancies. This has been a great trial; for with many of
those who apply to us the question is, an education now or
never.

The School always aims to make the best possible use
of such material as comes to it to be worked into something,
and for something. It is worse than useless to attempt to
make precisely the same things out of all kinds of material; —
wood is invaluable, but it is folly to think to make from it
a steel blade, or on the other hand, to use steel as wood. No
school ever had greater cause for satisfaction in the industry
and progress of its students, not only while with us, but as
well when they have entered upon their work as preachers
and teachers.

All that has thus far been accomplished is only the merest
beginning; — Africa redeemed is still far oil' in the distance.
Rut let us thank Hod for even the beginning. The Divine
favor has rested upon the work. This should cheer the
friends of the School to patient toil and self-denial in their
efforts to undertake still more in the work. The early fruits
of the School have been precious and abundant; and it would
be ingratitude and the blindest unbelief to doubt the results
of the harvest.

With profoundesl gratitude for all the helps and encour¬
agements that have conic to the School, the future shall see
more work undertaken, with the confidence that ever more
blessed results will follow.

'/ i.iiw at )'»•)> .liBiiii vHftn-flttl tjo if> i!' \ '•

. /it ii bin. »»t« feiWMWM «•<••'* ,Mi,f lw?: * *}

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

159

Miss Julia Maria Bartlett came to Wayland with a ripe
experience. She was a native of New Hampshire. I am the
proud possessor of many, many letters that she wrote me,
many of her compositions dating as far back as 1842, some
of her valuable Poetical Works and other books, and last but
not least, I have twenty-one (21) or more of her diaries
(1865-1887) that are invaluable to me.

Just a few of the topics of her composition: “Sight Con¬
quers Darkness, and Joy Conquers Sorrow, — Sad Ones To¬
day, Will Be Smiling Tomorrow.” “O Tell Me, Wliat Sort
of a Thing is Love.” (It was love that caused her to obey
the Voice of God. For, she was called upon to “daily take up
her cross and follow Him,” during her long and useful life).
“The Poor Rich Man.” “The Mines of Science Glitter in Thy
Sight. Come Dig for Gems.” “Many Though Faultier Much,
Themselves Pretend Their Less Offending Neighbors’ Faults
to Mend.” “Defer Not Till Tomorrow to be Wise; Tomor¬
row’s Sun May Never Rise.” “The Resurrection of the
Flowers.”

DEAR OLD ORPHANS' HOME.

• When I entered as a Teacher, January 8, 1883.

160

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Little did Miss Bartlett know when she was being trained
as a girl in the Literarv and Missionary Association of the
New-IIamplon Female Seminary of X. II., that her life work
would call her to be the greatest of missionaries. I quote
from Report 1817-18-19:

“How blest is union, when it flings
Its strong and ample cords afar.

And parted ones together brings;

Blest as one living spirit, where
One centre draws each distant soul
To mingle with the perfect whole.”

“How strange a compound is the human heart,

IIow slight a cause can bliss or woe impart;

Touch but a single cord, and all is bright.

Touch but another, and all is dark as night.”

J. M. Bartlett.

ORPHANS’ HOME. AS REBUILT 1883-1885.

May 10, 1883, Congress appropriated $40, <>00 (or a Brick Building.
Efforts of that Great Man, — John F. Cook.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

161

Let me quote again:

“‘The Magnolia,’ edited by J. M. Bartlett. Devoted to
Literature, Duties of Woman, and Good of Humanity. Wed¬
nesday, May 12, 1817. “It is not ours to Twine Gay Flowers
to Captivate the Eye, But simply Wreathe the Gathered

Leaves of Love, Truth, and Modestv.”

' 7

In “The Ladies’ Garland,” March 12, 1815, I note: “In
Humble Worth, Lies all the Enduring Glory of this Earth.”
“The Gates of Hell Open Night and Day; Smooth the Descent
and Easy is the Way; But to Return and View the Cheerful
Skies, In this the Task and Mighty Labor Lies.” “Biblical
Doctrines” is a veritable review of (he entire Bible. “A Liv¬
ing Spring of Dope Doth Lie in Every Human Breast.”
1816 — “Is Woman the Equal of Man in Intellectual Capaci¬
ties?” I have a lengthy description of her short sojourn in
Europe in 1891. Priceless clippings that speak of her work
while in Norfolk, and Portsmouth, Ya., say “Most devoted
and efficient teacher of the freed men,” etc. Surely she was
efficient, and devoted! At my passing, I do so want these
rare Gems of Miss Bartlett to go to the Frederick Douglass
Home, or The Negro Academy, or The Association for the
Study of Negro Life and History, because this noble woman
gave her life that we might live. Surely her “works do fol¬
low her.”

But very few if anv of her pupils had the privilege of vis¬
iting her in their beautiful home in Milford, N. Ik, as was
mine, in 1890. One hears much about the hospitality of the
South, but so far as that visit to dear Miss Bartlett, the North
excells them all. On arriving 1 found Miss Bartlett living
with her sister, Mrs. Ann Tarbell, who had three line sons,-
Messrs. Wendell Philips, William and Julian Tarbell. No
visitor was ever treated more kindly than I was, by that en¬
tire household. It is to Mr. Wendell that I am more than
indebted, because it was he who sent me my dear teacher’s
Gems. I always knew her to be neat and particular, but
when those mementos arrived. January, 1921, 1 was impressed
as never before. Every article so spotless you never could
tell that it was ever handled. Her compositions were en¬
cased in a pearl covered receiver. But for the fading of the
paper, the receiver is as beautiful as the day Miss Bartlett
graduated.

■

•ov i jfijjifii 07/ Initl fil.. i*>i 1 *)7C!}

* >7i m: ?ni -t j aori/r

Iff r'

[I J I f ! ; .1 ■

i 7 >> >r

■Awl unhung

162

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

From the time of her birth until Jan. 1, 18(33, whether
at home or at school it meant prepare, prepare, prepare! for
a studenous task awaits you!! As soon as the Emancipation
Proclamation was issued, it was as if she said, “I have heard
my Saviour calling,” come to Norfolk and Portsmouth, \a.,
teach the freedmen! So she obeyed, receiving the barest pit¬
tance for her sustenance. Here she labored, watched, waited,
and prayed until May 81, 1870, she set sail, 6:50 p. m., trom
Portsmouth to Boston. Reached her home in Milford, X. II.,
5:00 p. m., Saturday, June 1 1th. The next day being Sun¬
day, she did not go to church, as was her custom. Her note
says, “Didn't go out to church today. Too tired, and noth¬
ing to wear.”

NEWS FROM THE FIELD
VIRGINIA

Portsmouth, Va., January, 1866.

We have taught under very unfavorable circumstances,
for want of a suitable schoolroom, and have suffered very
much from cold and exposure. Our energies have conse¬
quently been so much exhausted that we have been able to do
comparatively little outside work. Still we have no wish to
complain. The people have done the best they could for us
in their poverty. Our best scholars have clung to us tenaci¬
ously, feel that they ought to endure heroically whatever their
teachers could. In the coldest weather it has been impossible
to warm the great open church, with its thin clapboards and
yawning cracks. Our scholars feel a great interest in their
school, and are improving finely. The parents are much in¬
terested and often make great sacrifices in order that their
children may enjoy the advantages of education. The father
of one of our pupils, a promising lad of sixteen, has fourteen
children and grandchildren dependent upon him for support,
with only the assistance of his wife, who sells at the market.
He felt that he must take his son from school in order that
he might aid in gaining a livelihood. But upon our present¬
ing to him the importance of the studies the lad was pursuing,
in fitting him for business, and the better to take his position
in the future ot their people, the man was persuaded. He
concluded to allow his hoy to remain in school till the close
of the year, though very much needing his assistance.

’ • '

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obl»ki<> illlil -li '/ilr ii;<[fnoo

II. Ill) 'JV 111 9l(|OUl| ll I

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,V. .1. Ilw.iinaq *■" >'*■• * «>' won* ■» "j

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

163

We have in collection with our school a weekly prayer
meeting, which occurs immediately alter the morning session.
All the scholars in my division remain and are very quiet
and attentive. All join in the singing, while six or eight
cheerfully lead in prayer. It is very encouraging to hear
those young disciples’ earnest petitions for their teachers and
unconverted companions.

We can hut feel that these little meetings have a salutary
influence over the school, and that the seed thus sown will
spring up in no distant future. Julia M. Bartlett.

• Julia M. Bartlett, one of the most devoted and efficient
of the teachers of the freedmen, writes from Norfolk, VaM
to a friend in this city: (October, 1861.)

‘*1 am still engaged in the humble but benevolent work
of teaching the freedmen. 1 have a line school of about fifty
scholars. Miss Draper, my associate, has about sixty in her
school of the less advanced. There are four other teachers
laboring here, sent out by another Society. Four years I
have been engaged in this work, long enough to prove conclu¬
sively that colored children are just as susceptible of improve¬
ment as white children. Their progress would he much more
rapid, could we have the comfortable school rooms of the
North, and did not our children have to contend with poverty,
which often keeps them out of school for want of shoes and
suitable clothing. We are obliged to resort to almost every
expedient to have them secure books. We often give the
mothers washing in order that they may earn the books for
their children, and we always lind them willing to work. This
is an encouraging feature.

“This people arc rapidly developing their energies and
proving that all they want is a fair opportunity to lead them
to become independent. We teachers are. sent out by a So¬
ciety which merely affords us a hare maintenance, and are
obliged to appeal to the charities of our friends for any ex¬
tras. I am very much in want of a set of outline maps for
teaching Geography. Knowing your interest in our work
and your generosity, it has occurred to me that perhaps you
and some of your friends would like to contribute some for
the benefit of our school.”

j'iu II'J > Imulo;* ji (Si v i * >7 i #4

% i * i ; . u j " i

fii : ! • ni un : ' . ■ >... I • ■ - 'i* •* i - ' Hi >/

) ;(l< *Mfi 4>J o nur>»> a*. i i ,/JM< hi 4 Ui< /

164

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

A nolc addressed to box 193, Norfolk, Va., and anything
forwarded by express to her address, would reach Miss Bart¬
lett and he very gratfully received in aid of her important,
benevolent, and noble work.

Her next call was to Wayland Seminary. Meridian Hill,
Washington, D. C., September, 1871. It was there that I met
her, September, 1875. You would have to read her diaries,
and sec the photographs of her pupils in Norfolk, Portsmouth,
and Wayland to get an idea how she endeared herself to her
pupils, keeping up such a large, large correspondence. Now,
at this age, I am asking myself “How did she do it?”

After eight years’ work at Wayland, Miss Bartlett was
succeeded by Miss Webb. Our beloved teacher reached Mil¬
ford, June 15, 1878.

THE ADAM F. PLUMMER FAMILY GROUP.

Standing (left to right) — Robert, Nellie, Maggie. Saunders.

Sitting (left to right) — Sarah Miranda. Father, Henry Vinton, N. P. Brown.

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

1G3

On Feb. 10, 1880, Miss Bartlett again reached Washing¬
ton. This lime to become principal of Orphans’ Home
School. As soon as I heard she was there, I called at once.
Two years later Miss Bartlett had an assistant who wished
to give all of her spare time to music, and so did not wish
to be a resident teacher. During Christmas of 1882, I called.
Miss Bartlett related the circumstances. I replied, “I woidd
like to stay here.” By Monday, Jan. 8, .1888, I had been trans¬
ferred to Orphans’ Home Public School, as assistant teacher
to Miss J. M. Bartlett. To show how well I liked the place I
remained there until Feb. 21, 1019, — 8b years, 1 month, and
3 weeks. In 1887 (June), Miss Bartlett resigned for a much
needed rest, and to better conserve her health. In September,
I was promoted to principal, which place 1 held for 32 years.

Can you now see what a debt of love and gratitude I owe
Dear Miss Bartlett? O Miss Bartlett, if 1 could onlv tell all
I 1 mow of your love and sarilices, 1 would not have to wonder
if this book will be worth-while! You taught me to love the
birds and flowers. You taught us that it is not far from na¬
ture to nature’s Cod!

Prepared and read by Miss Julia M. Bartlett for the
Woman’s (dub, Milford, X. II., after her short sojourn in
Europe in 1 891 :

St. Petersburg the capital of Russia, lies at the head of
the Culf of Finland, on both sides of the Neva. The branches
of the river on the north connected by canals form islands,
and constitute the Petersburg side1. A bend of the river on
the south forms a peninsula, on which the most compact part
of the city is located. It contains the finest buildings and
streets, and the residences of the court, the nobility and more
than one-half of the population, and is known as the Croat
Side or Croat Petersburg. 'This part is drained by three sets
ot canals which are connected with each other and with the
Neva, by cross canals, the principal ones being protected by
walls of hewn granite. lbO bridges unite the canals on both
sides, and span the Neva. Some of these bridges are very
handsome, but are all temporary — being supported by boats
and removed every year, when the frost comes — excepting
one .the Xiekolayeoski. which crosses the river. This is a
magnificent bridge with its many arches of granite, 1200 feet
in length, and having a drawbridge* on the north end. Three
sets ol piles were driven into the oozy bed of the river, so

t ■ ' ? ! ' / ‘ . •/ , . j !,|1I;

166

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

close as to touch cadi other all the way across, to form the
foundation.

A little building near the centre of the bridge is a shrine
for prayer. These shrines arc everywhere; their name is
“Legion.” Before them, morning, noon and night, you will
see the passer-by pausing long enough to cross himself;
while some prostrate themselves and kiss the dirty pavement.

Others purchase a candle from a little stall nearby, and
leave it burning before the picture of the saint in one of these
mosaic arches.

St. Petersburg impresses you as a maginificcnt city, from
the immense size of its government buildings, ware-houses
and palaces, and the breadth of its streets. The three most
important streets radiate from the Admiralty, and are 1 80 feet
in width. These are crossed by smaller streets, none less
than 45 feet in breadth, while there are no crooked lanes and
alleys. The prevailing color of most of the palaces and pub¬
lic buildings is a yellowish gray. There are very few marble
or stone buildings. Most of the Corinthian columns, elabor¬
ate cornices and scoulplured figures are only stucco. One is
disappointed to know this, especially in a country where her
quarries are so exhaustless, and her lapidaries so skillful. A
large portion of the buildings are of wood, and some of brick,
stuccoed and painted.

There arc 64 squares in the city. The Palace of the Ad¬
miralty, a massive pile stands in the central and prominent
square. It has a front a half mile in length, and two wings,
650 feet in breadth and can be seen from every direction,
while from its lofty galleries you can obtain a view of the plan
of the city. Alexander square contains the statue of Alex¬
ander I, the gratest monolith of modern times.. It is of red
Finland granite, entire height 150 feet. The shaft, exclusive
of pedestal and capital 84 feet high and 42 feet in circum¬
ference.

Peter’s Square contains the equestrian statue of Peter
the Great, 18 feel in height. The Field of Mars is a square
large enough for 40,000 men to perform their military evo¬
lutions. Adjoining this is the largest park called The Sum¬
mer Gardens.

St. Isaac’s Cathedral, situated in a large open space, not
far from the Admiralty is world-renowned for its grand archi¬
tecture and magnificent proportions. 1 1 is in the form of a

«. >" —• i« *> ssnsr-s.-.

SKS'-’":
■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

167

Greek cross, with a grand entrance on each side and each en¬
trance is surrounded hy a magnificent peristyle composed of
monolithic columns of red Finlnad granite, each column b()
feet high and 7 feet in diameter, polished like a mirror, i here
are three hroad flights of red granite steps to each entrance,
the entire flight being composed of one piece oi granite. A
large dome surmounts the building, 120 feet above the peris¬
tyles, supported bv 20 pillars of granite. It is made of cop¬
per, and covered with *250,000 worth of gold which glistens
most brilliantly. From its centre, rises the rotunda, above
which is a golden cross. A small dome, surmounting the
end of each arm of the cross, completes the symmetry.
Massive doors of sculptured bronze, connect to the interior.
It is not surprising that this Cathedral should have cost over
*1 1,000,000, since it required a forest of piles driven into the
spongy soil for its foundation, which is said to have cost
$1,000,000. And is now settling.

Inside before the altar screen, are columns of malachite
30 feet high, also of lapis-lazuli; while immense pillars of
white marble encrusted with malachite, porphyry, and lapis-
lazuli, sunport the dome in the interior. The walls and floor
are inlaid with mosaics of alabaster with antiques and
pvphhrv. and the steps are of polished jasper. There are
mosaic pictures of saints, and shrines of gold, encrusted with
jewels, so magnificent as to be almost incredible.

The Church of St. Paul and St. Peter is on Citadel Island,
within the fortress, now used as a prison, and which contains
the mint. This fortress was commenced bv Peter the Great,
and finished bv the Empress Anne. Hundreds of flags. Per¬
sian, Turkish. Swedish, French and Russian and kevs of con-
fincred cities bang around the walls. The tall, gilded spire
of this Church surmounted by an angel and a cross, rises 215
feet from the ground, and towers far above the city, and is
said to be the highest in Russia. All the tsars since the time
of Peter the Great, excepting Peter the II, are buried here.
The tombs of the tzars are of plain white marble. A sacred
image, set with diamonds is placed above each. A fresh wreath
of roses was kept on Alexander’s tomb though he died 10
years before. Me were told his lunerai procession was most
splendid. The funeral car of ebonv and sliver, 8 black horses
and coffin hidden bv a golden pall, lined with white satin.
Sixteen generals held the silken cords pf the canopy over it.

; n ^ (!lrw T'h'f'iluli. In .;u V hinuli Z,

i TX V i >li,'bte» w ••-ohi

. ,:n/! •,,,«< *•» 1(1 -»;•> ffmmil ',fJF .I>ifo,i^f|*

0 vqonr.3 otlt k» dfnao nojUto jilt Mod eltmaig nool/i^

168

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The Winter Palace is one of the largest buildings in the
world, and certainly one of the richest. It is situated along
the bank of the Neva. It is said that when occupied by the
emperor, there were 6,000 people residing in it, and there
were often 20,000 at the New Year’s Reception. It presents
a beautiful exterior, and yet we found it was built of brick,
covered with stucco and painted brown. We were three
hours in passing through its splendid hall, and over its miles
of polished floors. Its crystal chandeliers, malachite tables,
inlaid doors, golden dishes, crown jewels on the fourth floor,
an imperial crown, in the form ot a dome, its magnificent
royal chapel. One relic shown there, was the hand and a
part of the arm, of the Virgin Mary. Its beautiful throne'
room the finest in Europe. The ball room, St. George s Hall,
15 by 180 feet. The white room adorned with gold and em¬
blazonments, were all wonderfully attractive.

RESIDENCE OF THE LATE ADAM F. PLUMMER.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

1G9

We were shown the magnificent private treasures of the
emperor, such as indescribably rich embrodieries, medals,
pins, books and albums, all decorated with the costliest gems.
We also saw the bedroom of the murdered czar and the bed
where he died. Also the rooms of the empress and Nicholas.

We were impressed by the Ambassador’s entrance, with
its steps of white marble, of tremendous width. The jewel
room was not shown.

The Hermitage, founded by Catherine II. as a retreat from
the cares of state is now converted into the Imperial Museum.
It contains 10 rooms of paintings, where {lie greatest artists
from all countries are represented. One room consists of
Russian paintings, which are distinctly national. It is said
to contain the best collection of Spanish pictures outside of
Spain. There are 30 of Murillo's in one room. No museum
has such beautiful and costly ornaments. Among its jewels
is the largest diamond in l lie world, presented to Catherine
II by Count OrlolT, and cosling over halt a million. There
you. may see immense vases of prophyry, stands of Liberian
marble, eandleabra of violet jasper, urns of lapis-lazuli, of
incalculable value. Also statues, ivory carvings and tapes¬
tries.

The entrance is specially stalely, with its Mights of marble
steps, its red granite and gray granite monoliths, supporting
the vestibule.

Rut the most beautiful things satiate, and long continued
gazing at them produces finally, intolerable weariness. Rut
we must not target IVler’s gallery. Ihe effigy of this famous
emperor is seated in a modest arm-chair, surrounded by nianv
relics, such as telescopes, nautical instruments, implements
used in wood carving, etc. Unite a number of ponderous
canes stood near him, with which you could imagine him, in
one ot his irascible moods, chastising some offending servant
or official, as was his wont.

Scores of cases display some ot the possessions of Cath¬
arine the Ureal and Elizabeth, such as precious stones and
gems, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, curious watches, and a
mechanical clock, representing a golden peacock, with dia¬
monds and other gems, bouquets of flowers, made from prec¬
ious stones and walking sticks, studded with jewels.

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n ! ri i #u| lo HrfKmi 0!

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I ^)l)OHl : ili r * ir i r; >i|m )

170

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The Neoski Prospelit is considered the Finest street in
Europe. It is 1 30 feet wide and I miles long. It contains
some palaces, among others, (he Annitchkort, the favorite resi¬
dence of some of the emperors, many churches, large ware¬
houses, also the great bazaar with its 1,000 merchants. We
rode out on a steam train, nearly to the end, to visit the mon¬
astery of St. Alexander Neoskoi. Its grounds are extensive,
and it contains among other buildings. Trinity Church, found¬
ed by Catharine, and a cemetery, in which many of the promi¬
nent families are buried. That which interested us most was
the sarcophagus of St. Alexander, alongside the altar in the
chapel, composed of pure solid silver, weighing 3500 pounds.
It rests on a base of malachite, and malachite arms extending
up and supporting a silevr canopy above.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan occu¬
pies a prominent place on the Neoski. It is a poor imitation
of St. Peter’s at Rome, semi-circular in form, with lofty col¬
onnades extending each side of the entrance, as if embracing
it. Like some other churches, it is surmounted by a blue
dome, spangled with golden stars. Its interior is magnificent,
and profusely ornamented. Its images, before which lamps
are always kept burning, are covered with diamonds, emer¬
alds and sapphires. Arms, standards and eagles, taken from
. the French are suspended from the walls; Hags of different
nations drape the monuments, and keys of captured fort¬
resses are hung around the p il lars.

Seats are not allowed in Russian churches, so all must
stand or kneel. It being mid-summer we missed the view
of most of the cosily equipages, elegant toilettes and culti¬
vated people. A friend remarks “that in her opinion for the
concentration and embodiment of all that is dirty and repul¬
sive. the common Russian carries off the palm. These peo¬
ple, in dirty blue gowns, a cap which resembles a woolen
cuspidor and feet in dirty rags, tied on with strings, are often
mounted on little wagons called draschkies. angling with their
whips for passengers. The really cultivated Russians whom
we so much admire are very few compared with the great
mass.

Russian horses are beautiful, small, nimble and sleek,
and go like the wind. We enjoyed a delightful drive among
the islands. We visited the little house where Peter the Great
first lived. It is now enclosed in a small chapel for preserva-

■

..... mt fiilHlju'l-ili «. b tvl« ■ oV/ •:* +A baa

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

171

tion and exhibition. It consisted of three apartments, a bed¬
room, dining-room and kitchen, and contains many memo¬
rials of Peter, among them the boat which he constructed,
called the grandfather of the Russisan fleet. His bed-room
is now converted into a gorgeous chapel, with alabaster floors
and ceilings, and walls covered with painting and gems. Peter
is now worshipped as a saint and prayers ascend to him from
every part of l lie empire. We visited also, on another occa¬
sion, the larger but very modest palace occupied by him later,
a simple brown house of two stories, containing quite a num¬
ber of pieces of furniture of his own carving.

We were delighted with the heavily-wooded parks among
the islands, with bewitching villas, peering through the shrub¬
bery, with delicate shades of red, pink and green, painted on
roofs and trimmings. Now and then a modern palace ap¬
peared, sometimes forbidding, and often inviting in appear¬
ance. It was Sunday afternoon and we saw multitudes of
people in their holiday attire, and our driver gave us a fine
view of the dwellings of the common and lower classes. Some
few log houses we observed, and the style of architecture
generally was rather primitive. The water effects were fine,
with their numerous little row boats, and the curves of the
drives, canals and banks were most graceful.

The days and nights were soft and pleasant and we had
all needed comforts in our stately room, at the Hotel d’Anglc-
teuse. Of course the first thing after landing was to exhibit
our passes. These were vised and vized by separate officials
and finally copied off on the bulletin in the hall of our hotel.
No doubt we were under the special surveillance of some po¬
liceman.

There are quite a number of literary and scientific insti¬
tutions of the highest order in this imperial city. Among
others a University, a Royal Geographic Society of much note.
While the education of women is provided for in a woman’s
university, the gymnasium and normal school. The Imperial
Library contains one of the richest collections in the world.
Its Academy of Arts and Academy of Sciences are noted. Its
benevolent institutions are many, among others its celebrat¬
ed Foundling Hospital, hi Y* of all children born in St. Peters¬

burg are sent to this hospital thence to the larger part to the
villages.

.Iu1t> 1 vy n aaitiMi J>nft <* rt ii3 ,a »*rit>

i iMCjfq kv- ... iSvfcs nw alfiujn Imp < » *Jiil

;•! .

172 OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

St. Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great, in 1703, was
made his capital in 1712. None but a man of undaunted
courage, the strongest will, and it would seem somewhat
reckless of human life, could have overcome the almost in¬
superable obstacles of the swamp soil, malarial climate of this
low land only a little above the level of the sea, and two feet

RESIDENCE OF NICHOLAS SAUNDERS PLUMMER.
“Mount Rose, Hyuttsville, Md.

THE TRIUMPH OF TIIE CROSS

173

above the Neva, which in several cases has overflown its
banks, causing great destruction of life and property. Almost
within the Arctice Circle, and surounded by hostile nations,
Russians, Tartars, Cossacks and Finns were forced into the
service, and there was a sacrifice of 100,000 lives during the
first six months. Rut their places were easily supplied from
the neighboring hordes.

There were only a few good houses at the time of Peter's
death, hut the work of building and embellishing has been
carried on bv his successors, notablv bv Catharine 11. Alex-
ander 1 and Nicholas 1, so that in less than 200 years from its
foundation, it ranks among the first capitals of Europe, and
we may say of the world, and is equalled by none in its mag¬
nificence. All religions are tolerated. Ry the census taken
very recently, its population, which is very mixed, is 1,207,023
and the gain has been one-sixth in the past live years. It is
said that “the most significant revelation of the census, is
the immense vitality of the Russians, and what this portends
to Europe and civilization is worthy of study.”

After listening to this long and prosy article you may feel
ready for a cup of Russian tea, and this is the recipe: “Two
tablespoonfuls of tea — brought by land across Siberia — in a
glass, with three times as much hot water added, a slice of
lemon launched on its surface, and it is ready to he imbibed.”

While I am heeding the command, “Take the shoes from
off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy
ground, I must mention at least two others who died to this
world, as it were, because they “stooped so low” as to teach
Negroes and their children.

Miss Sally Cadwalader, of Philadelphia. Pa., was sent to
us here at Rladensburg, Md. Mv brother and I went to her
school in fall of 18f>(>. She was just the opposite of Miss
Bartlett in size being tall and large. If she was not Miss
Rartletfs equal intellectually, she had the same loving heart.
“For love shall cover the multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 1:8.

While on a visit to Rev. and Mrs. (ieo. W. Moore. 1897,
Nashville, Tenn., it was my great privilege to meet and con¬
verse with that great, great woman. Miss Johanna P. Moore.
This sketch of her own will explain as no one else can:

■ ) I'. *

174

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

JOHANNA P. MOORE— 1832-1916

An Autobiography.

My life lias been closely interwoven, especially with the
home life of the colored people because helping home meant
helping all dpartmcnts of life. No slave could have a real
home.

My call to this work came January, 1863, when a few
lovers of freedom met to rejoice with the Freedmen, hut above
the shout of victory I saw the helplessness of the freed slave.
Little black hands of children with those of their mothers
were stretched out beseechingly for help. I did not want to
see them — I had other plans for my life — but the vision would
not down till 1 said, “Lord, here am 1; send me.” I was to
graduate in June. As soon after that as possible I left, against
all the protests of my aged mother and all my relatives.

Mv lirst work was with about eleven hundred women and

+/ _

children on Island Number Ten on the Mississippi River, near
Memphis, Tenn. This was one of the camps where the Union
Army did their best to help the freed slaves who did not know
where to go nor what to do. It was a greatly needed work
for which we must never forget to be thankful. No pen of
mine can picture their desolation. You must imagine. Some
barrels of clothing were carefully given out. The army gave
rations. What did I do? 1 tried to be a Mother; it has been
my work ever since. Those suffering black children soon
crept into my heart and their mothers followed. Memory
holds them in loving remembrance today.

The soldiers built a rough shed in which we had a Sun¬
day School and also wedged in a little day school. March,
1861. the colony was moved to Helena, Ark., and part were
placed on plantations. Many died for want of care. The
friends from the North came about this time and established
an orphans’ home which was a very great blessing. I was a
helper in this work. I also taught the colored soldiers. They
made such rapid progress from that day to this I have never
lost my enthusiasm for the black race as regards their mental
ability. During these tifly years of freedom 1 have been with
the Negroes in loving fellowship in their churches, schools,
social gatherings, weddings, funerals everywhere 1 have felt
sure that he was simply a part of our common Immunity and

wum ov/ i- rtv.H *10 1
.iujiij4fve*jf> nioiU 'nnJ'juj mi;'j stum

f* li y'iiUifm :i mniiinryj iuu k» J nuj fi yhpniii %\*t? '»il 1 ‘ ‘ :jg

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

175

should be treated as such. Indeed I soon learned that the
Negro was simply a human being with all the virtues and
faults of humanity. It is true their former life and present
environment made them a little different from the white race.
From that day to this I have never seen the need of special
schools, churches, railroads and laws for the Negro. It is an
insult to humanity to treat him thus. All that God requires
of us is to give the black man, woman and child an equal
chance with the while race and he will eventually prove him¬
self their equal. This he has done already to a great extent,
while we have made him carry the weight of color and the
thought of inferiority has been constantly and unjustly urged
upon him. It has taken much of his time and thought to
make himself believe they were not true and thereby get
courage to try and try again, else he would have been utterly
discouraged.

God grant the time may soon come when the white man
can have the privilege of taking the Negro by the hand and
saying: “Come on, my brother, give no thought to your
color; you have in you ail the possibilities that 1 have.” Then,
and not till then, will the Negro have an equal chance to be
and do his best, and not till then will the white man have a
fair chance to help his brother rise. We, too. are greatly
hindered by this race prejudice which 1 need not explain here.

I cannot close without asking l he privilege of giving a bit
of motherly advice. Trust and be thankful, oh so thankful:
The outlook is a thousand times hotter than it was fifty years
ago. Great things have been accomplished for which we do
thank God and take courage.

I am speaking to a class of strong men and women who
have gained their strength by enduring hard things and over¬
coming discouragements. You have gained this strength to
help your weak brother. If you dwell too much on injustice
the weak will give up in despair. “Never ask for an easy job,
but ask strength to do a hard one.” Suffering does develop
strength much more than indulgence. Standing on the
heights of eighty years and looking back I can truhtfully say
that what I thought hindered did make me a stronger and
better woman. My trials, of which 1 have had many, 1 now
esteem my greatest blessings. We are placed in this world to
seek and to save the lost — to use our strength to help the
weak.

/ i l'; is . ' ih !>*>.' i ‘ i y/nii
.niii jfii il> 411 i moo

.thIIoiiI AtvsH im>x qloii

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fHiilJ 0 u)i f! >u mx iii, . nJa
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u* Si 1: 1:: < i f n i.. U.A:

17G

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Do not bo afraid of criticism. Learn from our enemies.
They know our weak points better than our friends. The
critics have helped me walk straight. Your trials, if borne
in the spirit of love and perseverance, will develop a strong,
brave and heroic race. It was so in the past; it is so today.
There is far more to encourage than to discourage, hut the
good is not emphasized. A thousand families in this city
live in love and harmony. Their names are not in the papers,
but in one I lie husband has killed his wife; this takes wings
and is talked of around every fireside.

I have something sweet, good and glorious to tell you
about our own dear colored women. It is in my little corner
of the vineyard. We call the work Fireside Schools because
it is done in homes. In Nashville, our headquarters, we have
enrolled about eight hundred colored women and a few men
scattered all over the Union, many in rural districts and out
of the way places. They, in their quiet, orderly homes, have
daily prayer and Riblc studv and a selected course of reading
for each year. Rv love and works they form their neighbors
into little' hands that meet weekly to review lessons, the strong
to help the weak. Thousands have here learned how to read
and in the minds of children is created a thirst for knowledge
that may lead to the college. In these blessesd homes we
grow strong men and women. To create this has been no
easy task. The organ of the work is Hope with a circulation
of 1 (>,000. These eight hundred homes represent at least ten
times eight hundred. The fact we want emphasized is that
these women are doing all this without pay and that they are
good wives and mothers while they thus help their neighbors.
This has been quietly at work for twenty-eight years in this
form, but in some form all the fifty years of my service.

Now. farewell. “Re perfect, he of good comfort, he of
one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall
he with you.”- 2 Gor. UR11.

M oi

n>/nov< '>*oi It

1 M-ifiv/’ Jr. yH'iinp firx! i

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

177

CHAPTER X
ORPHANS’ HOME

No word of mine could excel Dr. Montgomery’s “Fifty
Years of Good Works.” So I take the liberty to present the
same in its entirety.

And yet, in a finer sense, having spent so much time there,
dav and night, there must he in mv thoughts that which he
could not possibly know. Just as no mother could possibly
tell all she did for her children, from their “cradle” to her
“grave.”

The Spirit here was no different from that at Wavland.
Here the responsibility was on us. Here the Spirit of co¬
operation was necessary. Here, we teachers were called upon
to so live daily and hourly, that each little child could see the
Christ in us. It was our daily task to preach by example.
“The Kingdom of God is in you.” You are captain of your
own fate, vou are master of vour own soul.” “Re ever con¬
scious of the presence of God and all will go well with you.”

Of all the presidents of the Home Hoard. Mrs. S. C. Pom¬
eroy, Mrs. Helen A. Cook. Mrs. M. V. Datcher, and Mrs. M. S.
Meriwether were most faithful, unselfish, and lovable. Other
members of the Hoard who endeared themselves through ser-

vice were Miss Swann, Mrs. Doolittle. Mrs. Raxter. Mrs. Pur¬
vis, Mrs. Hall. Mrs. Hatch, Mrs. Shadd. Mrs. Dole. Mrs. Lynch,
Mrs. Edgar, Airs. Scudder. Mrs. Douglass. Airs. Messer, Airs.
Abbe. Airs. Ward, Airs. Ha i lev. Airs. Grimke, Airs. Brooks,
Miss Cook. Airs. Lyons. Airs. Aloorlnnd. Airs. Kellv. Dr. Lamb,
Aliss Rrooks, Airs. Howard, Mrs. Harris, Airs. Waldron, and
others.

Our Trustees were Air. John F. Cook. lion. S. C. Pom¬
eroy. Rev. F. .T. Grimke, Dr. C. B. Purvis, Hon. Frederick
Douglass, Air. James Wormley.

Eminent Phvsicians who served us faithfullv with little
or no compensation, were Dr. Samuel L. Cook, Dr. J. R.
Wilder, Dr. Samuel Elbert, Dr. E. D. Whedbee, and others.

On our Advisory Board were such busy men as Dr. II.
L. Bailey. Air. Ilenrv Johnson, Airs. S. AI. Hershaw. Air. Aaron
Russell, Sr., Mrs. J. II. Aleri wether. Air. Brooks, Air. Harris,
Air. Bassett.

0 ,

*m!«l 'nmH tU .v.Ii.tff A

178

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Our superintendnts have been among the noblest: Miss
Eliza Ileacock (her sister, Jane IJeacock, being matron),
Mrs. Coralie Franklin-Cook, Dr. Rebecca Cole, Mrs. Eva
Hood-Smith, and Miss M. E. Nalle.

When I saw how Miss Ileacock performed her duties in
such an exceptional manner, I said: “If she is willing to go
‘one mile,’ I ought to go two,” which I did in every way that
I could, “good measure, pressed down, and running over.”

These sisters were Quakers, from Jenkintown, Pa.
(Just out of Philadelphia. You know the Friends or Quakers
were the first to attack slavery, believing no man to be good
enough to own another. Thomas Paine, the Quaker known
to every one, said: “Most shocking of all is alleging the Sa¬
cred Scriptures to favor this wicked practice. One would
have thought none but infidel cavillers would endeavor to
make them appear contrary to the plain dictates of natural
light, and conscience, in a matter of common justice and hu¬
manity, which they cannot be. Such arguments ill become
us, since the time of reformation came, under gospel light.
All distinctions of nations, and privileges of one above others,
are ceased! Christians are taught to account all men their
neighbors; and love their neighbors as themselves; and to do
to all men as thev would be done by; to do good to all men;
and man-stealing is ranked with enormous crimes! So mon¬
strous is the making and keeping them slaves at all, abstracted
from the barbarous usage they suffer, and the many evils
attending the practice, as selling husbands away from wives,
children from parents, and from each other, in violation of
sacred and natural ties, and opening the way for adultries,
and many shocking consequences, for all of which the guilty
masters must answer to the final Judge! With what sonsist-
ency, or decency, they complain so loudly of attempts to en¬
slave them, while they hold so many hundred thousands in
slavery, and annually enslave many thousands more, with¬
out any pretence of authority, or claim upon them? How
just, how suitable to our crime is the punishment with which
Providence threatens us? Xo other vice has brought so much
guilt on the land as has slavery. The past treatment of
Africans must naturally till them with abhorence of Chris¬
tians; lead them to think our religion would make them more
inhuman savages, if they embraced it; thus the gain of that
trade has been pursued in opposition to the Redeemer’s cause.

f»r mi n ' !n #n ; >n:> ilJiv/ h'uiriMB ?i ; ui?$ da-nma hue

■•'> it . oo iou[)'j$inrj uiwIhmU nu an fwo

)i *?o mi >1 it? ninlqifioo vodl .r/ormb b to //on o

blori yorfl oJid/y .rnoifj ovr.U

: ’ »./;

'lorriooboH odl i } uoiJiaooqo ni Ik oaTuq nood <o,ri »binJ

THE TRIUMPH OF TIIE CROSS

179

and the happiness of men, are we not, therefore, bound in
duty to Him and to them to repair these injuries, as far as
possible, by taking some proper measures to instruct, not
only the slaves here, but the Africans in their own country?
Primitive Christians labored always to spread their Divine
Religion; and this is equally our duty, while there is an
heathen nation. But what singular obligations are we under
to these injured people! These are the sentiments of Justice
and Humanity.”

Says William M. Van der Wevde, Yol. II, Paine’s “Life
and Works,” Essay on “African Slavery in America,” “The
Negro race, not merely in America, but the world over, is
greatly indebted to Thomas Paine, although a very few Ne¬
groes are acquainted with this fact. Paine was ever the
defender of the Negro, and his first essay, written toward the
close of 1771, soon after his arrival in America (November
30-, was his dissertation on “African Slavery in America,”
which was published in the “Pennsylvania Journal,” March
8, 1775. Other articles by Paine preceded it in date of publi¬
cation, but none was written before the slavery article.
Writers had told about the cruelties and abominations of Ne¬
gro bondage, but Paine was the first to propose its abolition.
To Paine, therefore, belongs the honor of being the pioneer
American abolitionist. Had Paine’s advice been heeded
(eighty-eight years before Lincoln’s Emancipation Procla¬
mation), the American Civil War, with its toll of a half-mil¬
lion lives, might have been avoided.”

Pardon the digression from Miss Eliza Iieacock, but, be¬
cause we nursed the milk of freedom from the breast of a
mother who longed, and craved, and wished, and desired
with desire to be free, we deeply inherited that desire from
her. Hence the digression, t he Iieacock sisters were above
medium size in height and weight, with light hair and blue
eyes. They were noted for their sympathy. It is said: “The
fruit oi the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness,
goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is
no law.” For so it seemed with those sisters. Having been
reared in the atmosphere of truth, honesty, love, and purity,
they lived it daily before those orphans and others who needed
their holy example. Dr. Frank Crane, writing on “The
Home,” said: “To make a complete home you need a com¬
plete set of human relations as per the following list prepared

■I

180

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

by Nature and endorsed by the best traditions: Husband and
father, wife and mother, children, including babies and adol¬
escents; sisters and brothers, grandfathers, grandmothers,
guests, and a dash of neighbors and friends. If you lack any
one of these items you miss something, the home is not per¬
fect.”

It was out of a perfect home these sisters came, five sis¬
ters and three brothers. Thus was developed those sterling
Christian virtues, patience, faith, faithfulness, and joy- in-
service.

It was seldom that Miss Eliza Ileacock missed seeing
every child three times dailv, at breakfast, at dinner, and at
prayer just before supper. There was always some beauti¬
ful poem or motto, and much appropriate scripture given.
If asked to sing, they sounded like the ‘'angels.” If 1 could
print their (the Ileacocks’) letters to me. they would show
how free from prejudice they were. A plate was placed on
the table for our friends, just as it was for their friends. I
think no set of teachers was ever happier than were we, under
Miss Eliza Ileacock. She ever said to the children: “Let pre¬
cious Truth and Honesty attend thee all thy days, and turn
not thou a finger’s breadth from God’s most holv wavs.” I
early saw those qualities in her that made me resolve that
her “God should be mv God,” trust in doing right. I quote
here from The Home Report, January 1, 1S02:

“The few out of manv letters which are published with
this report speak the kindlv feeling of the children for the
Home, and especially for Miss Ileacock and their teachers.

The Christmas festival was heartilv enjoyed, and the liberal
gifts from churches and private hands are gratefully ac¬
knowledged. The pleasure was heightened by the presence
of eight children who had finished their terms of indenture
and come back for a visit, well-grown, hearty, and happy,
readv to begin to make their own wav in life.

The Executive Committee wish to express to Miss Ilea¬
cock their cordial appreciation, not onlv of her excellent man¬
agement of the affairs of the institution, hut of her real in¬
terest in and devotion to these children under her care.

This Home takes ch urge of a class of orphaned and des¬
titute children for whom no other institution provides; it
receives them at the early age of three years; it cares for,
trains, gives them a common-school education and when

-X°l bna J ^.ouhiy noltehriO

■

i slmr h>nxl rflbfiid Sv, .fill ft HOf'l loa

. *• vhq h)p: i>‘ loititb moil eHip

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

they are twelve years old, places them in families outside
the District of Columbia, where a certain amount of school¬
ing is required by the terms of the contract and when the
matron makes it a part of her duty to know their surround¬
ings and to make sure they are well treated.

Denied admission here, they have no refuge but the alms¬
house or, later on, the reform school. The cost of maintain¬
ing them here is much less than the average cost in the other
charitable institutions for children in the District; but the
saving to the District in training these children to become
moral, law-abiding citizens, rather than allowing them to
grow up in ignorance and vice, who can estimate?”

I am so grateful for having been permitted to serve in
this field of the Master’s Vineyard.

THE SAUNDERS PLUMMER FAMILY GROUP.

Standing (left to right) — Robert, Katie, Alfred, Sadie, Ida, Charlie
and Rudolph, by Mother's chair.

Sitting (left to right) — Grace, Mother, Nicholas, Jr., Father, Marie.

1895, — This house, 6 rooms and cellar, was built by Mr. J. B. Rufhn.
Hon. Frederick Douglass loaned the $1,000 with which it was built.

182 OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

LUCY SALISBURY DOOLITTLE
In Mcmoriam

(Read at the funeral, February 8, 1008).

I see her gentle form at rest
Beside my study chair.

Dreaming of those who need her
Who seek her tender care.

Why should she stay? so ready
Celestial tasks to dare.

The “First Born” of her Father
Lifted iu Heavenly Prayer.

My heart is with the aching hearts
That stand about her grave,

A loving God is nearer still.

Each suffering soul to save.

Our blinded eyes with tears are full.

Our pulses throb with grief.

But ripened power, not frost has brought
This glory to the leaf.

— Caroline II. Dali.

A LIFE OF SERVICE
In Memory of Mrs. Lucy S. Doolittle
By Jennie W. Scuddcr

(Read before the Women’s Alliance of All Souls Church.)

The woman in whose memory we meet today was horn
on October 7, 1832, and at her death on February fi, 1908,
she had completed a life of almost seventy-six years, of which
nearly the whole may be truthfully designated “a life of serv¬
ice!” Some of us sometimes wondered at the intensity with
which she gave herself up to this life. We find now its first
impulse in the fact that at eight years she was motherless,
and that from this moment she so hungered for mothering
and for the birthright of youthful happiness that had been
denied her, that to brighten the lot of motherless children
seemed to her a most worthy object of life.

During all her struggle for education she was sharing
her hard earned means with relatives whom fortune had
treated even less kindly than herself.

aoivnafc 10 aiu a

aoifiam

Alocioi! iicili vit»niat r.esl novo bolt'. I

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

183

In 1802, after having finished the preparatory studies,
and having taken some special courses in the College classes,
she married Mr. Myriek II. Doolittle, who had that year grad¬
uated from the College.

The Civil War was under way by this time and a more
strenuous life beckoned her away from the quite Ohio village.
Her husband, who was not strong enough to take part in the
war, went to Harvard, to pursue advanced mathematical
studies, while Mrs. Doolittle came to Washington to act as
voluntary nurse in the hospitals. Later she was employed
by the “Sanitary Commission.” Here she entered a field
where many afterwards renowned in philanthrophy, litera¬
ture and science were already working together, to suppress
rebellion, to succor the wounded and to uplift the slave.

When the tide of war was spent and the attention of
people was turned to making good its ravages, the city of
Washington offered as pleasant, as profitable and as useful a
field to her as could any other place. Her husband was now
employed in one of the scientific departments of the govern¬
ment and she began to make a home for themselves. At the
same time she was employed by public institutions and pri¬
vate individuals in the work of establishing the Negro in
habits which would help to make him appreciate the rights
of citizenship and capable of exercising them. She was an
agent of the Freedman’s Rurcau, and she managed a sewing
school for colored women and children, funds for which were
furnished by Miss Abbv Francis, of Cambridge, Massachu¬
setts, daughter of Rev. (’Olivers Francis.

About this time was founded the Industrial Home School
for White Children, which still exists in Georgetown. In its
establishment Mrs. Doolittle and her husband were very ac¬
tively interested and in its administration for many years they
took a leading part.

As national and municipal affairs began to settle into
shape in Washington and thought could he given to system-
matic charity, Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle became so closely iden¬
tified with all such etlorts that any history of Washington's
philanthropic development must make mention of them.

We can imagine the conditions faintly perhaps. The
city was inundated with a Hood of helpless, ignorant, irre¬
sponsible negroes from the surrounding country; it was strewn

. 1 i»fok|ifi9 mw 4*1 omM smm

i 'I'/ f 1 <*•*•' «) aM bhwv. fhi.lv/ ,ikI,„|

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/,IV/ 1 * id; ffioil KOoi^or»of(!f«noq?.

184

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

with the human flotsam and jetsam of the Northern and
Southern armies. There was a great prevalence ot petty
crimes which landed its victims in a jail or a workhouse
where were no separate quarters for women and men.
Women thus committed, in trying to preserve their clothing
for appearance at trial or for use after dismissal, were apt
to go improperly clad. Hither went Mrs. Doolittle to teach
these women to make other clothing from material furnished
by the authorities, thus lending a mite of aid toward keeping
a proper standard of life even in such unpromising circum¬
stances.

There was no police court for the prompt trial of minor
cases, and long waiting for trial by the District Court in such
uncivilized surroundings did more to promote than to pre¬
vent crime. One of the judges of the District Court had such
confidence in Mrs. Doolittle’s judgment that in many cases
investigated by her and reported to him, lie either let the
offender go free or gave him his freedom until time for trial
on his promise to return. In fact, lie practically made her
the judge in many cases. The need of a police court was so
apparent to her that Mrs. Doolittle asked her husband to
write a statement of things as she had found them. This
statement she presented to many Congressmen and quite soon
thereafter had the satisfaction of seeing a police court in op¬
eration. It is probably not claiming too much to say that
its establishment then was largely due to her eil'orts and argu¬
ments.

After the War the first and most insistent need for help
was among the hordes of colored people, and all the years
of her life in the District of Columbia were devoted to some
sort of work for the mental, physical, and moral improve¬
ment of these people. She never lost faith that they were
capable of improvement, nor the belief that they must and
could be made to help themselves by teaching them habits
of thrift and the principles of right living.

Mrs. Doolittle, believing thus, naturally identified herself
with many ot the institutions designed for this purpose. She
was for many years on the Hoard of Managers of the Home
for the Relief of Destitute Colored Women and Children, be¬
ing most ot that time its treasurer. She was active in per¬
suading the District Government to establish there a branch

-a'KHUJte

mi squill) *o b 9Jnw

!>rn<^ cl boWi/ob '*tsu liidmiHtil) lo loiil^ i< I oil* ni y xii 101 i fo

•• .. - r »'. '• • *

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

185

of the public schools, for she was beginning to see that segre¬
gation is not the best treatment for the little waifs. She was
glad also to act for some years as treasurer of the Manassas
Industrial School for Colored Youth, and did not give up the
office until failing health made it imperative. She was in¬
terested also in the Colored Foundlings* Home, since abolished,
and in the Temporary Home for Colored Children.

Mrs. Doolittle’s experience in institutional charity led
her to the belief that a system more closely following the
family ideal was better, and when the question arose as to the
organization of the Board of Guardians for Dependent Chil¬
dren, she was earnest in advocating such action, and was made
a member of the first board. Children dependent upon the
public are placed by an agent of the board in families in
different parts of the country. They arc carefully looked
after by the agent who reports to the Board, and permanent
homes are thus found for them. The expense is borne by
the District Government. The system demands discretion,
executive ability and great devotion from those who admin¬
ister it, and all these qualities our friend possessed in a marked
degree. The members of this Board are appointed by a
judge of the criminal court and two judges of the police court
of the District. Mrs. Doolittle served on it nine years, was
twice elected its vice-president and three times its president.
In the words of Mr. B. Rickman Mann, president of the Board,
who was long associated with her there: ‘‘Her work was
characterized by energy, fidelity and that manifestation of a
kindly and sympathetic interest which won the confidence,
respect and affection of her associates. She went quietly
and effectively about the work in hand and made no show
except of results or earnest efforts to achieve such as were
desirable.” Resolutions passed by the Board at her death
said among other things: “It has been truly said of her that
she never touched a life except to improve and bless it.”

In the years immediately following the war, begging on
the streets of this city by persons of all ages and sexes, was
so common as to be very noticeable and disagreeable. The
system of Associated Charities, already in operation in other
cities, was resorted to to put an end to this and to prevent it
in the future by removing its cause. Here again Mrs. Doo¬
little and her husband were ready helpers.

otuil o mil hnn Jr jljiaoncj-'jo.v all IrjJjolo afiiv/J

. Jjjlili. I no k|Ij jwn ”1.)

186

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Mrs. Doolittle was not a philanthropist who neglected her
own home. Her domestic affairs were always well managed,
and her children were nurtured with loving care. The fact
that she helped her husband to acquire considerable property
also gives proof that she was a woman of well ordered mind
and not a shallow enthusiast, neglecting her own affairs
while regulating those of other people.

Her relation to this church began at an early period in
her life here and she was acquainted with many of the fam¬
ilies connected with its early history. This relation was sus¬
pended for a time but when tier children became old enough
to enter a Sunday School she brought them to All Souls’ and
from that time she took for many years a very active part
in its affairs. She was one of the first two women elected
to the Board of Trustees and her influence there was for
those methods and means of administration which should
make All Souls’ distinguished in philanthropy and education
as well as in religion.

In short, hers was a practical religion. She was from
the first prominent on the Charity Committee, working with
vigor whether for the sewing schools and day nursery in the
Miner Building in South Washington or for the making and
• sending of clothing to the Missouri School at the Crow In¬
dian Reservation, or for free kindergartens maintained by
the Committee for some years among the poor white and
colored people in different sections of the city. At that time
it was necessary for the Committee to collect its funds by
personal appeal and Mrs. Doolittle never shirked this not al¬
together agreeable duty. A liberal giver herself, she was a
successful persuader to liberality in others.

MEMORIAL EXERCISES BY THE COLORED PEOPLE

Very beautiful memorial exercises were held in honor of
Mrs. Doolittle on April 80, 1008, at the Church of Our Re¬
deemer, by the colored men and women with whom she had
been associated in work for their race. The Rev. Daniel
Wiseman, Pastor of the church, very ably planned and con¬
ducted the exercises, his principal cooperators being Miss
Susan Cook, of the Childrens' Temporary Home; Prof, and
Mrs. Geo. W. Cook, of the Industrial School, Blue Plains,

t»n: aloof! »> iniv/fc orll T»illodu/ iopiv

to<,< iz'fW t>rii. lr fenof'.'ioq
'tub -.i%n 'isriHjjot

xi > Hi Mnldilii o) loiifllJ^ioq iul«330lJ8

. i. . - ~>V"' " • •! '' '--'Hi Trtf

■

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

187

D. G.; Dr. W. Scott Montgomery, Supervising Principal of the
Colored Public Schools; Dr. Julia Hall, Physician of the Roard
of Childrens’ Guardians; and Miss Nellie Plummer, of the
National Colored Home. The principal addresses were hv
Mrs. Cook, Miss Cook, Dr. Montgomery, and Mr. R. P. Mann,
President of the Roard of Childrens’ Guardians. Tender
tribute was also paid by District Commissioner Macfarland,
Prof. Cook, Mr. Wiseman, and Miss Plummer. The invoca¬
tion was pronounced hv the Rev. Wilber P. Thirkield. D. D.,
President of Howard University, and the benediction by fhe
Rev. Chas. II. Rutler, of the Luther Memorial Church. Mr.
Creig C. Williams rendered very svmoathetically “Come unto
Me,” by Rarri, and “She rested by the Rroken Rrook,” by
Coleridge Taylor, was tenderly sung hv Miss Cornelia Rarton.
At the special request of Mrs. Doolittle’s family, a delegation
of children from each of the “Homes” in which she had been
so greatly interested was present and sang their beautiful
hvmns and some of the Negro melodies, such as “Swing Low,
Sweet Chariot,” which brought tears to many eves. On the
platform were placed a crayon portrait of Mrs. Doolittle and
a beautiful sheaf of Easter lilies, a tribute from her friend

RESIDENCE OF REV. M. V. PLUMMER. BUILT. 1876.
“Adjoining Mount Rose,’ liyattsville, Md.

9 9

188

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

• and fellow-worker, Mrs. Florence T. Baxter. The night was
a stormy one, but within that quiet little church were warm
hearts, words of appreciation and sympathetic faces. The
spirit that brought her friends and fellow-workers together
and the debt of gratitude owed to Mrs. Doolittle by the col¬
ored people were so beautifully expressed by Mrs. Cook and
Miss Susan Cook that it lias been thought well to quote largely
from their manuscrint notes.

Miss Susan Cook said in part:

In January, when I asked the Board of Children’s

Guardians to allow me to cooperate with them in the work
they arc doing among the colored children of the District,
Mrs. Doolittle as the President of this Board gave me the
strongest support. In connection with that Board she could
always he found working for humanity, not any one race or
creed, but for all who were in need, showing how great was
her appreciation of the Master’s words: “In as much as ye
have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ve
have done it unto me.” Here I would say that her interest
was largely manifest in the colored children, feeling as she
did that many of them were in the deplorable condition in
which they were found because of poverty and lack of oppor¬
tunity rather than through any fault of their own.

Much of the success of the “Children’s Temporary Home”
is due to her good, clear and wise counsel, but not in this
way alone did she give her support to the Home, for in its
beginning she worked with her hands giving to it her thought,
her energies and much material aid. Mrs. Doolittle was
modest and unassuming. It can he truly said that hers was
a beautiful simple life, but ah, so broad, so wide in its leach¬
ing of good, and in her taking away we as a people have lost
a friend. Not for one moment would we recall her from
her well-earned rest. “Length of day and honor” all were
hers and for us a memory so true and so tender that we are
better able each day to lake up life's burdens because of her
example.

Following arc a few paragraphs from Mrs. Cook’s ad¬
dress:

The contemplation of any life that has been well spent
is always appealing to minds of intelligence. When the life
story is concerning one whom we have known and loved,
whose private life is shown to have been beautiful and whose

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

189

public life lias been sincere, then, indeed, are we doubly in¬
terested and inspired.

I have never been told anything of Mrs. Doolittle’s an¬
cestry, but from some source or perhaps from many sourcese
I am sure she had the inheritance which makes one wise and
good and brave. Long before I knew that she was a student
at Antioch College I felt that her youth had been wisely spent,
that she must have been in contact with men and women of
learning and breadth. She herself was cast in a generous
mould. Her mind was strong and well controlled. Her

ideals were high. She went about her work noiselesslv but

* »

with so much dignity, so much of strength, so much of help¬
fulness.

During the five vears that I held the position of Superin¬
tendent of the Eighth Street Home our friend was a member
of its Hoard of Managers. It was during those years that I
learned her true worth. There were other members of that
Board as consecrated to their work as she — none more so.
She had wonderful reserve power. One felt it as a tirst im¬
pression — a helpful spirit even in sunny days; under adverse
winds she became a very tower of strength. She accepted
her position as a trust and discharged her obligations accord¬
ingly. No half hearted service her’s. The best she had she
gave — time, money, self.

I am expected to say something especially as regards her
relation to colored people. Mrs. Doolittle possessed two
qualities that made her our friend. She had the spirit of
helpfulness and she was sincere. Sincerity was perhaps her
highest quality. Being sincere and being a Christian and
a philanthropist she could cherish no prejudice against race
or class. She was a friend to colored people, just as siie was
a friend to humanity in general, but, in addition, I think her
great, tender heart went out to our race with special sym¬
pathy because of our peculiar condition. Her understanding
ot our perplexities was both penetrating and svmpathctic.
The old age that had spent its youth in unpaid toil she loved
to provide for; the wayward and dependent children who are
turned loose upon our streets were, to the very last, objects
of her profoundcst pity and unfailing bounty.

bl hod diIk Wit 'flillMitlirft] n

190

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Fortunately enough her interests did not stop with these
classes. To the educated arid earnest among us she turned
always a friendly face. I think Mrs. Doolittle was as willing
to serve upon a hoard with colored people as with white,
measuring the one by the same standard as the other — that
of personal fitness for the position.

Mrs. Doolittle’s friendship for colored people was no
sickly sentimentality. While she regarded our achievements
with intense satisfaction — as who would not that had been
our life-time benefactor — she was in no sense blind to our
failings. This made her friendship ail the more valuable,
and it is certainly not too much to say that while the passing
on of this good woman will be felt by many people and in
many ways, it comes to us most seriously, for among the
younger generation who is there to take her place?

No one could know Mrs. Doolittle long without being im¬
pressed by her individuality. She could not be led, nor
driven, nor flattered into action. She had to see her own
way, and then without self-assertion, but with unfaltering
determination she chose her part and did it.

She was a progressive woman, bound in no way to old
line methods. The wanting to be where she was needed and
where she could do the most good amounted almost to a
passion with her, but she also wanted to be sure that she did
the right thing in the right way. Fifteen years ago Wash¬
ington was very antiquated in the method of conducting its
public charities. Mrs. Doolittle was one of the first to rec¬
ognize the need of reform. It was always a matter of regret
with her that others with whom she had for years worked
harmoniously could not see things as she did. Her clear and
penetrating vision went far beyond that of the most of us and
she went serenlv forward following the path pointed out,
content to be misunderstood “for the work’s sake.” Despite
her strength of mind she never attempted to coerce others
into accepting her judgment; this quality in one of her un¬
usual gifts gave her even greater influence than if she had
shown less tolerance. She could see many sides of a ques¬
tion and her able mind could cover every point with won¬
drous fidelity. 1 recall so well the position she took when
the Foundlings' Home was abolished and 1 remember what
an awakening came to my mind as she pointed out to me how
easy it is in doing good to multiply evil or rather the oppor-

.wtf,

r>m 'Ml! o!> biltttt yte

»l*l<>bfifi»8rfi od ot Ifioluoo

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

191

Utilities for evil. With her, preventive charity was far more
desirable than remedial charity and wise as she was she held
herself ever ready to learn new lessons.

We wish to impress our readers with the type and qual¬
ity of the noble characters, a few men and many women, who
heard Jesus say: “Feed my lambs.” What we have said of
Mrs. Doolittle was true of each and all who labored for Or¬
phans’ Home.

“The Ladies” held their annual board meeting (April) at
The Home. After which lunch was served. If there was any
prejudice as to color, we never knew it.

- Miss Swann did honors for her sister, Mrs. Justin S. Mor¬
rill, who was an invalid. Suffice it to say The Home never
needed a friend in Congress, while Senator Justin S. Morrill
was there, lie, his good wife, and Miss Swann were angels,
indeed, in the uplift, both financially and spiritually.

Of all the beautiful women who answered the call of
Mercy, Mrs. Florence T. Raxler excelled them all. She was
tall, graceful, and handsome. Rut the LOVE she showered
on us there, can never be forgotten. Every teacher was re-
membered at Christmas time. With her own hands she gave
each child an orange, besides other gifts.

Mrs. Ward, being on the Educational Committee, was
rich in exncrienre, because of having traveled so extensively.

Mrs. Hall, the wife of the astronomer, Asa Hall, was ever
helpful in the schoolroom. She was quiet, gentle, and beau¬
tiful.

One of the most beautiful “pictures” that used to come
to The Home was Mrs. Alice P. Shadd (Dr. Furman Shadd’s
wife), and her two beautiful children, Hattie and Furman.
Mrs. Shadd never failed to come and bring those children.
With their beautiful manners and ways, it was the grandest
object lesson our children could have had. It was my happy
privilege to teach Mrs. Shadd's children one summer. It
was then I saw the difference in teaching those who had been
carefully trained, and those who had no training at all.

Of all the mothers with whom 1 have had contact, 1 think
Mrs. Shadd was the nearest to perfection. Dr. Shadd was all
sunshine. Such a blessing to the sick. I just read that his
sister, Miss Marian P. Shadd, has retired from school work

nl/. a aw ouiol I m\T ol

namifiiu lnliJiJu'xt ij .ili dtiV/

nil ol uniwaj.l n thu* .•jiiiilzmie

192

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

with nearly or finite fifty years*’ service to her credit. What
a blessing! What a blessing! ! Roth Miss Shade! and Miss
Merritt were so helpful to us at The Home.

Mrs. Chas. R. Purvis was love in action, as her heart
went out to every child.

After Mrs. A. E. Williams became kindergartner (1893),
I came home here to Ilyattsville every day instead of living
at The Home which I had done for ten years. More and
more the colored ladies were elected to places of the Roard
until practically all were colored.

This is why I’ve spoken largely of ihe white members,
but I do know that the colored ladies were ever as faithful
and loyal as they.

ROBERT PRESTON BROWN.
NELLIE PLUMMER BROWN.

Twins of Preston and Magfcic Brown.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

193

FORTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT

of the

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
For the Relief of

DESTITUTE COLORED WOMEN AND CHILDREN
For the Year Ending January, 1901

ANNUAL REPORT

Washington, D. C., January 12. 1901.

To the President and Members of the National Association for

the Relief of Destitute Colored Women and Children:

It would scarcely he worth while to refer to the Christmas
exercises held at the Home — for the occasion is fresh in the
minds of those present — were it not for the heartfelt rejoicing
which all must feel in the steadily increasing intelligence and
capability of the children as shown in their exercises and not
less in their deportment voice, manner and carriage. Their
progress in all respects is most gratifying.

The program, on the closing day of the school, in June
last, was varied bv the presentation of a testimonial to the
principal who had then completed twenty years of earnest,
faithful and most efficient service. The value of the instruc¬
tion given to successive classes in all that time can never he
estimated, hut through her conscientious work the pupils are
so thoroughly grounded in the rudiments of an education
that thev can never he really ignorant, no matter how few
their subsequent opportunities may he.

Newspapers and magazines regularly furnished from the
Dead Letter Office supplement the work of the school room
and awaken a love of reading that may he a helpful resource
and substitute for companionship in the lonely country homes
to which most of them are sent.

The superintendent in her latest report, says:

“Under the painstaking direction of our seamstress, iive
girls have during the past year rendered marked service in
the sewing room. They have done all sorts of finishing and
they are already competent assistants.

«■>«>» Yttl! ni nwoil, nr. noibli.b ori) 1,- vali.i, ,

1 sow l!i; ni * I'Mumn

on« ni Jooib* otli In rr. |. angola ail) no .-.luninm, ->rlT "'

;9d ycrn BoiJiripiiooqo iimutefultM lioiil

■»•«> to noii-j-nih ani/it.Unir-.q aif) T)|jnU“

194

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“Five boys have helped at shoe mending and there are
two, whose work is so good, that did their age and strength
permit, they could do all our work in that department.

“One embryonic carpenter puts in window lights and docs
all sorts of jobbing over the house. Two have been trained
to go on errands, take messages, get correct change, and select
simple articles in store or market.

“The same story comes as of yore, from the absent ones.
Applications for indenture of hoys and girls come, almost
invariably, from acquaintances of those to whom our children
have been sent.

“We have had a year remarkably exempt from severe
illness and this gratifying fact is apparent: that these children
will be aided in the struggle for existence by sound bodies
due to the fact that in this formative period they are cared
for in a manner that never comes to the homes of the poor
and ignorant.

“From every side we can find reason for thanksgiving,
that just so much has been snatched from the burning, and
just so much done in the interest of true human progress/’

An expensive, though unavoidable work done by a special
committee, in the spring and early summer, was the filling
up and re-grading of the grounds about the Home, made
necessary by the raising of the grade of adjoining properties.
It was a difficult task for it involved the protecting of the
large trees, the locating of buried sewers and sewer traps, the
raising of out-buildings, the moving and replacing of fences
with many other troublesome and costly accompaniments.

The resignation of Miss Louisa Jacobs, as matron, at the
end of June, was accepted with much regret. Her place has
been filled by Mrs. Emily Lee, who entered upon the duties in
October. During the vacation they were performed to t lie
entire satisfaction of the superintendent by Mrs. Williams.

In the meantime, the two houses, so obnoxious to the
Home, continue to block up Eighth Street and to constitute
an insuperable obstacle to any effective action by the Fire
Department. Not all the paraphernalia of lire escapes, hinges
for iron window screens, metal ceiling for furnace room, etc.,
will compensate for free access to Irving Street, a distance
ol only loO feet — the depth of a single building lot. A bill to

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

195

open Eighth Street with which the owners of property in the
neighborhood heartily concur is now before the Senate and
'should command the most earnest effort in its behalf on the
part of each member of the Association.

In accordance with the provisions of this charter, on the
15th of March the Association held a meeting for tthc elec¬
tion of officers to constitute its Executive Committee. This
committee now ask leave to present their report of the work
they have had in charge.

Although our organization dates from last March, we
were then without funds and were compelled to wait for aid
to begin our work. Our first effort was to find a suitable
place for our purpose and liable to confiscation. In this, after
much labor, we were successful, and on the first of June we
were put in possession by order of lion. E. M. Stanton, Sec¬
retary of War, of the house and grounds we now occupy on
the heights of Georgetown, in close contiguity to the city and
beyond its limit — at once a retired, healthful and suitable
place.

On entering into possession, we at once secured the serv¬
ices of a matron and in the six months of our Home's active
existence we have received there two (2) aged women and
sixtv-two ((>2) children.

The want of houseroom has hitherto prevented our ad¬
mitting many of the aged. Of the children received, twelve
were infants. Rut few of the number were is a healthful
condition when admitted. Several of the children were in a
nearly dying state from consumption, scurvy and chronic
diarrhea. And though we have since endeavored to leave
such cases in hospital, the insufficient provision for their care
notwithstanding the kind attentions of the surgeons in charge,
has induced us to receive some whom we could hardly hope
to save but could make comparatively comfortable for the
brief residue of their child-life.

In September, our present teacher. Miss Maria Mann, en¬
tered upon duty at the Home and since then the progress of
the children has been highly satisfactory, all evincing docility,
intelligence and aptness to learn. We have now in attend¬
ance in school thirty-seven pupils. The want of necessary
room for so large a number has compelled us to erect tem¬
porary buildings — a dining room, laundry, school room, and

, .unhliib (!'<*) ov/]-x)xiB

wild •}// (hi/. li^firuJI)

196

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

dormifnrv in the form of barracks. We desired these to be
much nio^e extensive, that our charitv might shelter larger
numbers, but this the limited means at our disposal has pre¬
vented.

As our institution is national, we rely upon contributions
from the friends of humanity throughout the land; there¬
fore we renew our appeal to the friends of the freed orphans
to strengthen our hands by increasing our ability to rescue
the young, the destitute, from the demoralization and suffer¬
ing of camp or street life and afford them by right discipline)
a chance for full development and for lives of true usefulness.

To tlie National Freedman’s Relief Association of New
York, we feel greatly indebted for the pledge of one thous¬
and dollars.

While the blessing of our Heavenly Father has attended
this effort for his little ones, our Association has not been
without severe chastening and loss. There were with us in
the beginning two leading minds, especially distinguished
by unselfish devotion to this holy cause. Mrs. Potter of Wis¬
consin and Mrs. Pomeroy of Kansas, two of the originators
of this enterprise have passed from works to rewards. Mrs.
Potter left us early but not until the good work, in its starting
had felt the impetus of her earnest spirit.

The death of our president, Mrs. Lucy Pomeroy, we have
great reason to deplore. The Home has been justly called
her monument. Declining the rest and change that she
needed she remained with us doing the summer’s heat to aid
in our work, still laboring with us even when life was waning
and her parting spirit sent us back a blessing with the pro¬
phetic words: “The Home” will succeed. ’Tis for a race —
for millions we are working. Let us forget ourselves.”

The cause for which such a life was freely given can not
want laborers.

Signed,

E. S.

GRIMES, Vice-President.

Washington, January, 1861,

.bolnw

' 1 ! l\< ' - <j TJii i: lf>

197

THE TRIUMPH OF TIIE CROSS

Their happy occupation of their pleasant home, how¬
ever, did not last long for in the third report some uneasiness
was expressed lest the government should return the prop¬
erty to its former owner. At the quarterly meeting in July,
a communication was received from him, proposing that the
association should vacate the premises in consideration of
$1,000. This offer was refused and a statement drawn up
which was placed in the hands of the attorney general.

The two following reports, which deal with this subject
and include an appeal to the President of the United States,
as well as correspondence between members of the associa¬
tion and some of the most distinguished civil and military
officers of the government, are full of interest but are too long
and enter too much into detail to be reproduced here. Suffice
it to say that the statement referred to contains the follow¬
ing facts:

The former owner was an officer of the United States
government and a colonel in a regiment of the District militia.
When the war broke out he refused to take the oath of alle¬
giance and left for the South where he served in the Con¬
federate Army until the surrender of Gen. Lee, although he
had not the excuse of State allegiance, pleaded by so many.
He was, however, granted a pardon by President Andrew
Johnson which included restoration of property. The Asso¬
ciation then purchased live lots on Eighth Street beyond the
northern boundary of the city for the sum of $2,500. On
this site, the Freedman’s Bureau assisted in erecting some
frame buildings out of lumber from old barracks given by
the War Department. The two months allowed the inmates
to vacate the premises proved to be too short for the comple¬
tion of the new buildings; they were, however, driven to take
shelter in the half-linished structure on the 7th of December,
180-1, the owner having taken possession and by dismantling
doors and windows rendered it unsafe for the occupants to
remain.

Notwithstanding all their difficulties, the next year seems
to have been a prosperous one. One hundred and thirty-live
children were cared for and they had secured an exception¬
ally fine corps ot workers. Miss Strong as matron, Miss
Stick ney as assistant. Miss Towle as teacher with Mrs. Songer
to carry on the industrial work, four earnest devoted women
(all well-known to the older members of the Association),

ralial aril

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1 ,’jfi yw ViflJ ;e«4(iiiiliiid v/o/i oil) lo noil

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,(fU>iij;iDOfc£A oi(j lo e*u>ci iitsin ublo *jriJ oi awoni-lldw Lb*)

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

could not fail to win the affection of those committed to their
care as well as the confidence of all who contributed to the
work.

The statement that a Mrs. Haviland look fifteen children
to Michigan Where they secured good homes, causes a pang
of regret that opportunities to send our wards to those treer
Northern communities arc now so few and that the children
must he placed in Maryland and Virginia where the senti¬
ment against them is scarcely less than in the days ot slavery.

At this lime all the household seem to have settled into
the quiet enjoyment of their new home. We are told that
it was finished in the early summer and comfortably fur¬
nished — that the parlor was handsomely furnished by the
efforts of Mrs. Matilda Madison and her friends — all colored,
women of Washington.

On Sundays the children with the matron attended serv¬

ice at the Congregational Church, corner 10th and G Streets —
the Sunday School held at the Home being under the superin¬
tendence of Major Townsend.

It was in 1808 that the name of Mrs. M. S. Pomeroy ap¬
pears as president. At the time of her resignation in 1808,
she had given a continuous service of 80 years. On the Ex¬
ecutive Committee in the same year, is found the name of
her friend. Miss Swan — both had given much time and inter¬
ested efforts to the welfare of the Home.

On the list of donations for this year, mention is made
of the proceeds of an afghan given by Mrs. Lincoln, which
amounted to $282.50.

In 187."), we find a government appropriation of $10,000
notwithstanding the fact that rations and hospital stores were
furnished from the Frccdmen’s Hospital. These were in the
palmy davs for four vears later the appropriation was low¬
ered to $5,000, so that tlicv were obliged not oidv to reduce
salaries and wages of emplovees. but to refuse all applicants,
both children and old people, and to put into other homes
all who could, by anv means, be disposed of in that way. The
women were restricted io 12. and the children to 100 — the age
limit for the latter being 3 vears.

What undoubledlv crippled them during this year of
pressure — referred to in the report as “hard times” — was the
fact that the private fund which should have been available
had been put to her own private uses by the treasurer. The
amount involved was finally recovered.

.mitj n ii«* // In noiiiOY/

,9Mn,| fi«l ! lo yiitllov/ »<lt oj botes

o) i >Ihihoiob

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

199

Perhaps the most dramatic* event in the history of the
organization was the scene in Mrs. Pomerov's drawing room
when the treasurer appeared with a number of her friends
and introduced them as new members, claiming that they
were entitled to vote because of having mid to her the two
dollars reauired to constitute memhershin. Finding them¬
selves likely to he outvoted, the real members withdrew to
an unner room leaving the assembly without a uuorum. It
was this enisode which inspired two important amendments
to the By-Laws. the first requiring nomination of a proposed
new member at a regular meeting bv a two-thirds vote of
those present — the second, providing that a member mav he
expelled by a two-thirds vote.

For several successive years, at the annual meeting, the
ncccssitv of replacing the old frame structure with more
substantial buildings was discussed and then dropped. There
seemed to he a hesitancy on the part of the management to
entertain a proposition leading to so great an undertaking.
At length, in 1883, John F. Cook offered a resolution, which
was warmly supported by ex-Senator Pomeroy and Mr. Savles
,T. Bowen, reuuiring the president to name a committee to
appeal to Congress for a new building.

Three women — the secretary and two members of the
Executive Committee — fulfilled the duty with the following
result, as stated in the next annual report:

Senator Butler, chairman of the sub-committee to which
the matter had been referred, having made inouirv of the
Commissioners of the District of Columbia and learned that
in their opinion the management was “economical, humane,
and judicious.” made a visit in person accompanied bv Com¬
missioner Dent and on Mav 10th of the same year, the hill
making appropriation for t tie present building was passed to
the great satisfaction of the managers. Every member of the
Association lived in hourlv dread of the appalling loss of life
that would follow if the old barracks with its coal stoves and
oil lamps should catch on lire. Even the fire department
professed its inability — on account of the location and char¬
acter of the buildings — to do more than assist the inmates
to escape.

Time will not permit even a passing reference to the
many items of interest that fill the pages of the yearly records.
Among them are the completion of the new buildings at a cost

on £ 1C)} MKnjUKK ’ <>| fnO(|Cf|J

i,(V 0 fill VA v 0'L‘ * j iiitu - --ooUiffifrjfiD ovijjrjox'f

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200

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OH

of $40,000. The purchase at successive periods of live lots
on Irving Street adjacent to the Home — the rather reluctant
acceptance from Congress of the temporary care of found¬
lings — the passage of the act creating the Board of Children’s
Guardians — the resignation of the matron, Miss Heaeock,
after a service of 22 years — the sewing of grass and the plant¬
ing of shade trees on the new grounds — the draining of the
grounds to sewer on New Jersey Avenue — the filling up of
the wells after the introduction of Potomac water — the in¬
stalling of the steam-heating plant — the first lengthy report
rcci uired by the Superintendent of Charities — and latest, but
not least, the bequest of $21,000 by Mr. Joseph Anthony, a
citizen of Washington.

It is impossible to close without referring to some of the
names which grace our pages, as well as the pages of the his¬
tory of the period; names honored for philanthrophy, for de¬
votion to country, for great wealth generously bestowed, for
intellectual power for services rendered at the expense of
valuable time and even of health or some other of the qual¬
ities that raise men above their fellows. Senator and Mrs.
Grimes of Iowa, Mrs. II. Stowe, Mrs. Horace Mann, and Miss
Mann, Mrs. Jane G. Swisshelm, Mrs. E. D. E. X. Southworth,
Miss Peabody, Mrs. Passmore Williamson, Hon. Samuel
Hooper, Gov. Henry I). Cooke, Gen. Howard, Gen. Eaton,
Senator Trumbull of Illinois, Senator and Mrs. Benjamin E.
Wade of Ohio, and Senator and Mrs. Morrill of Vermont are
only a few of those, gone before, to whom we pay the tribute
of admiration and respect.

Among those more closely identified with the actual work
were Senator S. C. Pomeroy, the constant and active friend
of the orphans and destitute; Mrs. Caroline S. Hall, as broad
and firm in her views of right and duty as she was gentle in
her expression of them; and Mrs. Anne Si. Purvis, for so many
years the efficient head of the committee on Admissions and
Dismissions.

It is pleasant to think that their charitable labors were
not in vain, but that the Home which they established is still
carried on and commands the approbation of all who acquaint
themselves with its scope and value.

Respectfully submitted,

HELEN A. COOK, Secretary.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

201

The school continues to he conducted in the usual ad¬
mirable manner by Miss Plummer and her assistant, Miss
Sheffey. Her report contains a request for an application
to the Board of Education for another assistant, the number
of pupils being too great for the best results to he obtained,
especially in the higher classes. It is sincerely to be hoped
that the request may he granted since children leaving the
Home are often located in country districts where they have
no further opportunity for continuing their education.

FRANK VICTOR AND NELLIE BEATRICE PLUMMER

Children of Dr. and Mrs. R. F. Plummer.

* ‘Thankie’

and “Bea.

202

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

IN MEMORY OF MRS. HELEN DOUGLASS

Wife of Frederick Douglass. Who Died December L 1003

The following resolutions, offered by Mrs. G. F.
Grimke, were adopted at the annual meeting, January
12, 1001:

RESOLVED, That we, the members of the National
Association for the Relief of Destitute Colored Women
and Children, have learned with deep sorrow of the
death of one of our most valued members, Mrs. Fred¬
erick Douglass, who passed away after many months of
suffering, at her home at Cedar Hill. Anacostia, D. C.

RESOLVED. That we deeply feel her loss to the
Home in which she was so truly interested, and to this
Committee to whom she gave faithful and loving service
as long as her failing health would allow. Though un¬
able to be present for some months she never lost her
deep interest in the work. Her bright, cheery presence
and her sensible and helpful advice will be greatly
missed by us.

RESOLVED, That we recognized and highly es¬
teemed her rare and noble qualities in all the relations
of life, her unfailing devotion to and helpful and beau¬
tiful companionship with one of t lie noblest of his race;
her unflinching courage in great and peculiar trials; her
passionate sympathy with the oppressed of every clime
and race, and especially with the oppressed colored
people of this country whose wrong she made her own,
as few have ever done; her faithfulness and warm-heart¬
edness as a friend: her abounding hospitality — all these
and many other fine traits of character, endeared her to
all who knew her. and make her loss a very great one.
not only to her friends, hut to humanity in general.

RESOLVED. That this little testimonial to her great
work he entered into the minutes of this Association, and
that her example may ever be a joy and an inspiration
to us in our work.

. / liiiqioil brifc

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aoil} /) ; 2? » ij »i T)f! :bn*> i‘ n i ibs

jtiow if fo ni *u ol

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

203

FIFTY YEARS OF COOI) WORKS

of the

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
For the Relief of

DESTITUTE COLORED WOMEN AND CHILDREN
A HALF CENTURY OF GOOD WORKS

1863-1914

Bv Winfield Scott Montgomery,

Chairman of Committee on Semi-Centennial Report

The association, whose existence for slightly over fifty
years is herein commemorated, had its origin at the time of
the tremendous upheaval incident to the struggle between the
North and South. Abraham Lincoln, “with malice toward
none, with charity for all.” was guiding the Union through
the most critical period of its life. The land was drenched
with blood and covered with mourning as the result of the
gigantic contest between Slavery and Freedom. Men had
parted garments of the country and cast lots over the vesture
of the government, and brought on the greatest war of all
bistorv. The reverberations of cannon fired at Sumter still
filled the land.

The most striking and tragic result of the fratricidal
strife was the breaking un of the relations between master
and slave which had under the sanction and protection of the
Constitution, continued for nearly two and a half centuries.
Thousands of homeless and helpless bondmen fled from the
scenes of battle to the Capital of the Nation with the dim hone
of succor and protection. And noblv did the government re¬
spond to the strange suppliants in the creation and work of
the Freedman’s Bureau.

Under the direction of the now sainted Gen. O. O. How¬
ard the rescue work went forward, in care, chiefly, of adults.
Associated with Gen. Howard was a voting Lieutenant, John
Eaton, who became, under the banner of peace, “when the
war drums throbbed no longer, and the battle flags were furl¬
ed,” United Stales Commissioner of Education, and in that

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' <»r mH> orfi nliw hi/ n > U;liqi ) * > i f I ot ofliisd }o *jrm*

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.nojJnonb/f 1o "FWoitttirmrxoP *olnl2 fnlin’J

201

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

exalted place advanced the cause of learning all over the coun¬
try, especially in t lie South where dwelt the great illiterate
mass of whilom slaves. To Lieutenant, and General, and
Commissioner John Eaton, the colored race of this country
owes a debt of gratitude that can only be paid in a develop¬
ment commensurate with the high hopes and faith Gen.
Eaton entertained concerning the capacity of the former
bondmen.

The pitiable plight of the children, the offspring of slaves,
really and truly orphans of slavery and war, and of aged
women, worn and weary with the toils and burdens of thrall-
dom, appealed powerfully to the noble women who saw them
fleeing in throngs to the seat of Government. The sublime
spirit of charity shone conspicuously, and for the hapless vic¬
tims of bondage and war it was poured out unstintedly.

A humanitarian feeling, broad and catholic enough to
embrace all God’s creatures, pulsated through the Northern
heart, and the splendid women, who nerved the arm and fired
the heart of husband, father, brother, and lover, to meet the
foe upon a hundred stricken fields, or lovingly stood by those

DR. R. F. PLUMMER’S RESIDENCE

“Mount Rose,’ Hyaltsville, Md.

Built by Mr, Everett Tinner, of Falls Church. Va., 1922

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

205

who guided the “Ship of State” through the stress and storm
of war, inaugurated this charity we celebrate, that for live
decades has mitigated human suffering and glorified their
sex.

On the Heights of Georgetown, where the surpassing
beauty of the surrounding region breaks upon the eye — the
majestic Potomac flowing seaward, the National Cemetery
at Arlington where “Glory guards with solemn round the
bivouac of the dead,” the Washington Monument, above all,
nightly flashed upon by a beam of white light in token of the
veneration and admiration of a nation — here was fittingly
laid the foundation of the Home for Destitute Colored Wo¬
men and Children of a race whose destiny hung in the wav¬
ering balances upon the issue of battle.

The place first used as a homo had belonged to a man
named Cox, a clerk in one of the government departments,
who had refused to take the oath of allegiance to the gov¬
ernment, and had joined the forces of rebellion. The gov¬
ernment had, in accordance with its policy, confiscated this
estate, and when the project of providing for the mass of
refugees was presented to the administrative officers, quick
and ready affirmative response was given by the great Sec¬
retary of War, Edwin M. Stanton, whose name and services
in those trying times will go down in history to the last syll¬
able of recorded time.

Unfortunately il has been impossible to secure the re¬
port embodying the inception of this charity, and so the prom¬
inent personages who lent time, influence and money, and,
above all. that spirit to rescue the perishing and to lift the
fallen, a spirit brought into the world by Jesus of Nazareth,
may not all appear in the account. Rut it may he safely said
that quite all whose names are recorded in the Annual Re¬
port of 1805, were active in the founding of the Home in 1805.

It should not escape notice that the conception and in¬
auguration of this good work were by the white race. The
colored race had then no legal standing in the land, had just
dropped the manacles of slavery through the fiat of emancipa¬
tion from the pen of President Lincoln, and, through ignor¬
ance and poverty, was utterly and totally helpless in the face
of the destitution and destine confronting them.

y O

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200

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The value and importance of this work was fully seen
and realized, and therefore, an “Act of Incorporation” was
presented to the Congress of the United States, which was
approved February 1 1, 1803. Thus the corporate existence
of the Home had the sanction and approval of the supreme
law-making authority, and of ihe President of the country,
and for a half century it has nobly carried forward the basic
thought of its founders, help to the helpless.

Sayles J. Bowen, who became Mayor of Washington, and
whose fairness in relation to the colored race here during his
mavoraltv, will be forever cherished by the race, and Daniel
Breed, and George E. Baker, by lending their names and in¬
fluence to this cause as incorporators, have gained immor¬
tality. Thus we see that the individual survives only as he
links himself with a cause, with an institution or object greater
and grander than self. Rouen, Breed, Baker, or the three
B’s, may well be the three patron saints of the Home, for
they stepped forth from the common mass to champion a
work from which many shrank at that time.

Although these noble and honorable men stand promi¬
nently forward, it must not, for one moment, be forgotten
that women inspired and instituted this charity, and for fifty
years, through their efforts, it has flourished and accom¬
plished a work unique in the evolution of a race.

The imperishable and magnanimous words, “Let us have
peace,” from the silent soldier, Ulysses S. Grant, had scarcely
been flashed along the wires, when the ante-bellum owner of
the place occupied by the Home sought to claim his rights
because of the universal amnesty promulgated by President
Andrew Johnson who, by the assassin’s bullet, had succeeded
to the great office sanctified and hallowed by Abraham Lin¬
coln. Powerful and influential friends lent time and talent
in combating the efforts of Mr. Uox to dispossess them of
their Home. But they lost, and were forced to vacate.

In the report for 18f>i> the following graphic language
relative to the legal battle is found:

“To His Excellency Andrew Johnson, President of the United
States.

Sir: Believing that the petition of Richard S. Cox, late
of Georgetown, 1). C., for pardon, has been presented for your

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*j (I A r I \ "<»ll :tl bnn lioiliJojic* ewiTUi 'j.U oJ

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

207

consideration, we beg respectfully to lay before you the fol¬
lowing facts: Richard S. Cox, immediately previous to the
rebellion, held a clerkship in the office of the Paymaster
General of the Army. In 1861, when the employees of the
Government were required to take the oath of allegiance, he
refused, and left for the South without resigning his position.
Mr. Cox held also the commission of Colonel of the eighth
regiment of the District Militia, having been placed there by
Secretary Floyd, just before the inauguration of President
Lincoln. In the rebel service, R. S. Cox held the rank of
Major until the surrender of General Lee. After the aban¬
donment of his property on Georgetown Heights, it was, on
a representation of the facts, turned over by the Secretary of
War to the ladv managers of the National Association for the
Relief of Destitute Colored Women and Children. Since
their occupation there has been expended on the premises
nearly $3,000, while every care has been taken to keep the
property in at least as good condition as when it was placed
under the care of the Association. In view of these facts, and
also remembering the situation of the capital when Mr. Cox
deserted it, his position rendering this peculiarly disgraceful
without the excuse of Stale allegiance, which has been pleaded
by so many — we beg leave, and earnestly and respectfully
protest against the restoration of this property.

Your obedient servants,

Mrs. M. C. Hart, Vice-President,

Mrs. Germond Crandell, Treasurer,

Mrs. W. L. Nicholson, Secretary.

This clear and eloquent plea by women vitally interested
in this great task of conservation of human beings so recently
released from the woes of servitude, stayed for a short season
the restoration of the property, but, as stated, the Association
was finally forced to vacate.

In June, 18GG, the President, Andrew Johnson, granted a
pardon to Richard S. Cox, the antebellum owner of the prop¬
erty occupied by the Home. It is amazing that the Govern¬
ment should have rehabilitated a man with pardon and prop¬
erty forfeited by an act foully traitorous to its existence and
integrity. With sword dripping with the blood of the de¬
fenders of the country, while the smoke still hung over the

*vnol tywf •> //

208

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

battlefields, red-wet with tho blood of patriots, this man was,
bv executive order, allowed to take possession of an estate,
which under the principles of law. had heen dedicated to the
use of the helnless and hapless victims of slavery which he
had sought to fasten forever upon the land.

Let it, however, be stated that the President directed Gen.
O. O. Howard, head of the Freedman’s Bureau, to provide a
site for the Home, and land was purchased on Eighth Street
beyond the Northern Boundarv. where was erected a build¬
ing to house the inmates of the Home.

The brutality of the owner of the Georgetown property
was shown by his driving from their quarters the inmates, in
December, by “dismantling the houses of doors and windows,
removing the furniture, and rendering it unsafe for the occu¬
pants to remain.” Cox, in addition to putting them out, “re¬
tained one hundred bushels of corn and hay raised on the
farm last summer.” To add insult to brutality and cruelty,

NURSE JULIA AND HER MILLION DOLLAR BABY.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

209

Cox “surd the Association for damages to the amount of
$10,000.” The Association lives, rrWions m the beneficent
work done; Cox is dead. and. but for b>s bad connection with
so notable a cbaritv. would sleep unknown. Verily “the
name of the wicked shall rot-”

In the renort of the Association for 18fin was sounded
a note which has been dominant in the land for over a half
centurv. to wit. “The Negro Problem.” “No question,” say
they, “before the public is at present so interesting as the
future of the Colored race.” We are surely aiding in solving
this vexed problem in the only way indicated by Christian
love and Charity.” Had the spirit of these splendid women
endured, spread, and leavened the American heart, the race
would have advanced much farther, and achieved a higher
and a more honorable place in the nation. Their tribe has
decreased, but their names shall be hallowed in the heart of
the race till time is o’er!

The word “National,” shows that the founders felt that
the work was not local, not bounded by the geographic limits
of the District of Columbia, but belonged to the whole nation,
and so they appealed to all sections to lend a hand.

It is interesting to note the people who became life mem¬
bers at the birth of the Home by the payment of fifty dollars
($50). In a total of twenty-eight life members mentioned
in the report for 1805, we find three men. and twentv-five
women, striking evidence that women inaugurated and fos¬
tered this work of uplift.

Among the males was Savles ,T. Bowen, who was one of
the incorporators, and whose great heart sympathized so tully
with a people thrown into freedom by the tide of war. Twenty
of the women were the wives of men notable in the councils
of the nation and in good works, such as Mrs. William II.
Seward, wife of the Secretary of State; 51 rs. S. C. Pomeroy,
wife of the Senator from Kansas; and Mrs. Horace Mann, a
name that will glitter an imperishable star in the firmament
of the Republic.

A study of the twenty-eight states represented by these
members reveals Massachusetts as leading with sixteen names
of the best blood of that grand old commonwealth, the home
of Sumner, Phillips and Andrews, “a radiant constellation of
deathless names.” Four were from the District of Columbia,

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m ik ! o Dhl ;H IJ w«n )».»// luof r' inniii

210

OUT OK THE DEPTHS, OR

a fine showing considering the then small population of the
rity. Vermont, New York, New Jersey. Pennsylvania, Maine,
and Kansas furnished helpers in this work of salvation.

This enterprise was entirely dependent upon charity, in
the beginning, and right nohlv did the friends in the North
and West respond to the appeals for financial aid. The good
people of the District gave generously, for their eves daily
looked upon the litter destitution of the victims of slavery
who had eneomped within the limits of the city. Donations
of clothing were numerous, due doubtless, to the sight and
thought of the rags of slavery worn by its victims, as well
as to the injunction of the Master to “clothe the naked.”
Food, toys, candy, and books were among the gifts to the
inmates, numbering at the beginning of January, 1805, forty-
seven children.

One of the first things attempted was the instruction of
the children in the rudiments of learning, from which under
the direst pains and penalties, slavery had shut them out.
The lamp of learning lighted thus early in the Association
has never gone out. and today, under the Hoard of Education,
the children of the Home are receiving the birth right of
every American child, a common school education.

In 1800 a set of by-laws was adopted by the Association,
which for comprehensiveness and working details, have served
splendidly the cause, and today remain intact, with scarcely
change or addition, as first promulgated. No mere tyros
engineered this activity that has ministered unto the poor
and needy ol a people whose ancestors as bondmen piled high
the wealth of individuals and of the nation until by the vicis¬
situdes of time and war they were brought suddenly into the
Nation’s life, bearing the marks, and wearing the rags of
servitude.

Among the notable women who served as presidents
during the existence of the Association, no name is so re¬
splendent as that of Mrs. S. C. Pomeroy, the wife of the
Senator from Kansas. For twenty-nine years she gave heart
and soul to the cause by whose cradle she stood, and only
when summoned to reward by the Master did she relinquish
efforts to relieve those whose woes had appealed to her amid
the shouts and shots of war. Though dead, she yet speaks
eloquently and in the midst of us.

vwruitQ'j n Jiliito fii *> tjwA vi wo
/d Id Jcmj ft iJODt ril

■

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

211

Her likeness hangs upon the walls of the Home, an ever
present reminder of a woman whose rare service and per¬
sonality should hv all who guide the work of the Home be
forever kept alive in the minds and hearts of the beneficiaries
of this effort to save, humanize and spiritualize.

' M.

The presidency was held by Mrs. Helen Appo Cook from
1908 to November 20, 1913, when God’s finger toucher her,
and she slept. We, the living who worked with her, know
the devotion she brought to the cause. Having for ten years
acted as secretary of the Association, she was thoroughly
familiar with the work and spirit of the Home, and by her
zeal and executive force had won the foremost office. Under
her administration the scope of the Association was enlarged,
and hundreds of children were brought under the care and
nut lire of the Home. Organized charity, the result of the
best, most advanced thought of the age, utilized this plant
to care for the innocent children thrown by poverty and ne¬
glect upon the city. This recognition of the importance and
work of the Association may, nay, must be justly attributed
to its earnest, active, and alert president, Mrs. Helen Appo
Cook. She, being identified with the people cared for by the
Home, felt and exhibited a sympathy impossible to be cher¬
ished by those who belonged to another race, a racial affinity,
an instinct as deep and lasting as human nature itself — altru¬
ism energized by this affinity is dynamic force, worthy of
deep thought and consideration in all efforts to save. “The
Greeks hearing gifts" are, even in matters of charity and sal¬
vation, “feared.”

Therefore, because she was a colored woman, because
she had deeply realized and felt the woes and sufferings of
her people, Mrs. Cook laid upon the altar her talents and ser¬
vices for the uplift of the poor and needy. She needs no
epitah hut her connection with this Home. The race will
remember Helen Appo Cook as a leading and devoted worker
of the Association through many years of its splendid service
to God and humanity.

From its birth the National Home for Destitute Colored
Women and Children has had many able secretaries whose
reports make most interesting reading, embodying as they
do the real history, the res gestae of the Home. In the be¬
ginning and until 1880 the secretaries were white. Then Mrs.
Helen Appo Cook became secretary, and for ten years tilled

■

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212

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS. OR

most efficiently and acceptably that important office. In the
report for 1880, the very first hv Mrs. Cook, is a note that in
her car and in her heart sang while she breathed this vital
air, that “the Home helps to make respectable members of
society of a class whose only inheritance is the physical and
moral infirmity transmitted through years of wrong and op¬
pression, and whose innocent helplessness appeals so strongly
to the humane.”

Through sympathetic grasp and full conception of the
possibilities of the Home, Mrs. Cook presented annually most
illuminating reports, which went far towards inducing Con¬
gress to increase the appropriation given yearly and finally to
make provision ($20,000) in 1888 for new buildings in lieu
of the poor and inadequate ones used by the Association.

Today the fine and commodious brick structure on
Eighth Street, Extended, the Home is the fitting monument
to Helen Appo Cook, the able secretary for so many years.

Search through reports brings to light the fact that a
man, “mere man,” filled, for a time, the office of secretary.
The reason for so radical a departure from precedent is no¬
where given, and the brevity of li is term, perhaps, indicates
that his incumbency was a Iusus naturae, or it reveals the
thought that the workers in the cause felt that it was “not
good for women to be alone” in so important a sociological
task. Significance is lent to this view from the increased
male annual membership so conspicuous in recent years.

The trusteeship of the Association for many years was
solely in the hands of the white race. This fact shows very
clearly that the nation or public had not reached the point
where belief in and recognition of the ability and fitness of
the colored race could justly and safely entrust it with the
guardianship of so great and important an interest. For nine
years no colored men were among the trustees, but in 1872,
I)r. Charles R. Purvis and James Worm ley were elected. Dr.
Purvis is still alive and identified with the Association. 1 1 is
services have been above price, and his name and memory
will survive when brass has corroded and marble mouldered.
Through many years Mr. James Wormley, the noted pro¬
prietor of Wormley's Hotel in the city, by word and deed
was the firm, fast, and consistent friend of the institution.
The distinguished orator and leader, Frederick Douglass, be-

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

213

came a life member in 1886, and so remained until his great
heart ceased to heat. He was a trustee in 1879.

Mr. John F. Cook, the leading citizen of the race here,
early connected himself with this noble cause. He gave
money, influence and labor, and did much to bring before
Congress the worthiness of the Home, doubtless doing more
than any other man to secure the Congressional appropria¬
tions in support of the Association. Elected a trustee in 1885,
lie filled that responsible position until called from labor to
reward.

The Home has been very fortunate in the notable men
who had given labors without hours to preserving, enlarging,
and carrying forward its mission. Their services in this
cause will enshrine them in the grateful heart of a race strug¬
gling from slavery to freedom, and from poverty to indepen¬
dence.

MISS EMMA PETERSON
Our Foster Sister

214

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The Act of Incorporation placed the conduct of the Asso¬
ciation in the hands of a Hoard of Managers as an Executive

Committee “to carry into eifect tiie plans and purposes for
which said Association was formed. ’ I o this body of de¬
voted, self-sacrificing women the Home owes its growth and
the fulfillment of its purposes during fifty years.

In the beginning and for twelve years, the wealthiest,
most cultured, and philanthropic ladies of the city piloted the
affairs of institution. They labored and pleaded tor this work
of salvation, of turning human liabilities into assets for so¬
ciety. The value and extent of their efforts will he revealed
on judgment Day. All arc “under the sod and the dew.” ex¬
cept Miss Louise Swann, but their names and memories are
hallowed for evermore!

Their work has been left as a sacred legacy to their sisters
of a darker hue, who true to the great trust, arc administering
it faithfully and sympathetically because of that “one touch
of nature” which establishes kinship with the beneficiaries.

Gradually the colored race had greater and greater rep¬
resentation on the Executive Committee. The colored wo¬
men who worked in the Association were the most culti¬
vated and occupied places of leadership in political and social
circles. Their white sisters had borne high the banner for
years, and passed it on to the hands worthy to prosecute so
noble a charity. God buries his workmen, but the work goes
on, bringing humanity nearer and nearer to the New Jeru¬
salem, the city of the living God.

In 1878 the Executive Committee elected from its mem¬
bership standing or working bodies for more definite and effi¬
cient accomplishment of its purposes and plans: a Com¬

mittee on Education, a Committee on Clothing, a Committee
on Household, and a Committee on Admission and Dismis¬
sion. This wise step resulted in placing responsibility, and
everybody’s business became somebodv’s business. The
smooth expeditious running of Hu* affairs of the Home is
clearly and surely attributable to the faithful and conscien¬
tious discharge of its duties by each committee. The various
needs are fully met by such an arrangement, and the Associa¬
tion welcomes and challenges comparison with like activities.

“Ihe arduous excellence of things done” in prosecuting
the work, is fully and fittingly shown in the annual reports

/( fj£T » bin a-'iol

►fii (: /’unit I

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

215

rendered through the secretaries l>v the Executive Committee.
“The very pulse of the machine.” the innermost snirit. is
herein seen and felt. Most fascinating is it to catch the view¬
point of those in control, the estimate, hones, and fears
through the nast vears. The grandest thought is the steadv
Tinwavering faitli in the potentialities of the children. Faith
in God and in humanity shines like a star through all the time
these rare women administered the affairs. Such a faith
surely should cause us of today to have faith in ourselves,
in the ultimate triumnh of the highest and best so long re¬
pressed bv conditions beyond our control.

The following excerpts from these reports illustrate the
thought before us: “We can but regard this asylum as one
of the instrumentalities designed by a gracious Providence to
perform an important part of uplifting a race to the dignity
and privileges of freemen and citizens.” “It gives pleasure
to notice that the colored people in the city are beginning to
take an interest in the destitute of their own class.” These
words were penned in the Sixth Annual Report, and elo¬
quently evidence the fact that the race has not, as is so fre¬
quently said, stood with open palm and passive chest for
the alimony of others. These memorable and cheering words
are found in the Eleventh Annual Report: “It is useless to
urge here, what they themselves have established, the fact that
with proper assistance, the colored race, is capable of great
improvement, nay, of maintaining an enviable position, side
by side with the dominant Caucasian.” Such hold, brave
language could not have emanated from any but those who
believed in the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of
Man at a time when the mightv schism in the land over slavery
had not fully closed, and when the capabilities of the disen¬
thralled were in darkness and doubt.

“Of the many noble charities which testify to the human¬
ity and Christian spirit of the American people, none appeal
more directly to the heart than those which assume the care
of little children.” The conservation of childhood is greater
and grander than the conservation of forests, or water-power,
and the sacredness of child was divinely announced by Him
who said, “Of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”

For fifty years, true to their course and cause though at
times the shadows grew dark, the Executive Committee has
stood hv the rudder, hearing forward their work of relief.

>t!l ?.i rfoua 1<)'* .l>iws t\/r

216

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

uplift, and salvation of the destitute of a race suddenly thrust
from utter dependence into the most strenuous and complex
civilization of all ages.

The Home is a large family and the matrons who have
presided over it have by their zeal, assiduity and fitness won
the approbation of the Association. Of the many valuable
women who have served in this capacity none is more worthy
of mention than Miss Eliza Ileacock, for twenty-two years the
efficient household head, and under whom the Home grew in
estimation of the community in the scope of its ministra¬
tions. Called to service at a time when faith and hope were
most essential she has impressed herself upon hundreds of
children who have gone out from the Home with unfading
memories of her splendid personality.

The present matron, Mrs. Eva Hood Smith, through pe¬
culiar fitness and devotion, is holding up the high standard
set by her predecessors. The mothering instinct so necessary
in one who daily meets and mingles with the little ones in her
is remarkable and contributes marvelously to the remarkable
success of the Home.

This brief description of the National Home for Desti¬
tute Colored Women and Children is presented “lest we for¬
get” the noble work accomplished, the magnanimous women
who inaugurated it, and for a centurv immolated themselves
upon the altar of service for a race despised of men.

By pausing to recall the history of the National Home
for Destitute Colored Women and Children we of today honor
ourselves. Called into existence bv the exigencies of the
times to meet a problem put before the nation by the unpre¬
cedented changes in the political and social relations of the
country, the Association has wrought a good work, not alone
for the helpless ones cast into our midst, but also for the moral
and spiritual advancement of the land. The heart and con¬
science of the best men and women were touched by the
spectacle of a people set adrift upon the sea without chart or
compass. The Home became a haven for the most dependent,
and has rescued hundreds from destitution and destruction.

The race is gradually outgrowing the shell of slaverv,
and assuming the place of self-support in this civilization.
To this noble charity in our community is due a tribute of
gratitude irom the entire race. "Without blare of trumpets,
quietly, unostentatiously, the rescue work has advanced, first

.nsm 1o lmi« ooni n 'foV*>6irm In ibilft oil! rtoqw

h )o f*noiJr.l')i b..w* f«<] swl* ni $'>S4i •***• i,ouni,'j>

i ^ • f i .. > i. <•. I n : \<W1 a

»4»tv/ (. *iii uotjH'ilnhtt toa Mqo f| • • io oHisl-wq*

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

217

under the help, guidance, and inspiration of the superb wo-
men who inaugurated it, and finally under the control of mem¬
bers of the race for whom it was founded.

The originators of the National Home for Destitute Col¬
ored Women and Children, were the bright consummate rep¬
resentatives of the high civilization of the North, and armed
with “the sword of the spirit,” they waged a war for God
and humanity which the present and future generations are
pledged to carry on until every vestige of slavery has disap¬
peared.

Indebted to them for countless services and sacrifices, the
colored race will never cease to hold them in grateful and
honoring memory.

MRS. FANNIE THOMPSON AND DAUGHTER HAZEL

A Ueloved Friend, — Nashville, Tenn.

218

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

FIFTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT

of the

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
For the Relief of

DESTITUTE COLORED WOMEN AND CIIILDRExN

For the Year 1913

Location of the Home: EIGHTH and EUCLID STS, X. W..

ANNUAL MEMBERS

Mrs. R. L. Brooks
Miss U. V. Brooks
Mrs. II. A. Cook
Miss E. A. Cook
Mrs. M. Y. Da teller
Mrs. C. F. Grimkc
Mrs. C. \V. Harris
Mrs. I. M. Howard
Miss L. M. Jacobs
Mrs. L. M. Ivellv
Dr. II. I. Land)

Mrs. J. II. Lyons
Mrs. E. P. Messer
Mrs. M. L. Meriwether
Mrs. L. C. Moorland
Mrs. E. R. Montgomery

Mrs. M. X. Waldron
Mrs. L. Warner
Dr. II. L. Bailey
U. S. G. Bassett
E. G. Brooks
R. V. Cook
John II. Cook
Archibald Grimke
Rev. F. J. Grimke
L. M. Hershaw
W. II. Harris
Henry Johnson
Dr. \Y. S. Montgomery
Aaron Russell, Sr.

Rev. J. M. Waldron

BSU’HMaW .lAUHWA

.W .D .«W

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

219

LIFE MEMBERS

Mrs. J. M. S. Williams ....

Mrs. Jackson _

Mrs. J. M. Forbes _

M. S. Putnam _ _

Mrs. R. G. Shaw _

Mrs. Huntington Walcott

Mrs. R. C. Greenleaf _

Mrs. John Cushing _

Le Baron Russell. M. 1). „
Mrs. William S. (Hidden .

Miss Maria R. Mason _

Mrs. L. K. Lippineotl _

Mrs. Clark _ _ _

Mrs. J. Curtis _

Mrs. E. P. Bullard _ _

Mrs. Julia Minot _

Mrs. W. Gaylord _

Mrs. Margaret Robinson _
Mrs. Lucius Tuckcrman
‘Mrs. Leland Stanford ....
* Miss Emily Williams .....

‘Miss S. Hooper _

‘Mrs. A. Hem men way ....
‘Mrs. Ann Wiggleswortli

‘Miss E. P. Peabody . .

‘Mrs. M. S. Pomeroy _

‘Mrs. Oakes Ames .

‘Mrs. Lucy Pomeroy . .

‘Mrs. E. P. Gurney _

‘Mr. W. Gaylord
‘Hon. Schuyler Colfax ...
‘Hon. Sayles J. Bowen ...
‘Mr. Frederick Douglass .
‘Mrs. Josiah Lasell . .

Cambridgcport, Mass.

. . Newton, Mass.

_ Milton, Mass.

_ Boston, Mass.

_ _ Boston, Mass.

. . Boston, Mass.

_ Boston, Mass.

_ Philadelphia, Penn.

.... Philadelphia, Penn.
.... Philadelphia, Penn.
.... Philadelphia, Penn.

_ _ New York

_ Germantown, Penn.

_ New York

_ California

.... Cambridgcport, Mass.

_ _ Boston, Mass.

- . Boston, Mass.

_ Boston, Mass.

_ Washington, D. C.

_ _ Boston, Mass.

_ Kansas

_ Burlington, N. J.

- New York

. . Indiana

. . Washington, D. C.

_ Whitinsville, Mass.

‘Deceased

XoTHflO'l .filM*

220

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OK

COMMEMORATIVE LIST

Mr. Saylcs J. Bowen
Mr. George E. Baker
Mrs. H. L. M. Hatch
Prof. C. C. Cook
Dr. Daniel Breed
Hon. S. C. Pomerov

Mrs. Ida D. Bailey
Mr. G. F. T. Cook
Mrs. A. M. Purvis
Mrs. Frederick Doug
Mr. John F. Cook

OFFICERS FOR 1013

President: Mrs. Helen A. Cook, 1118 Sixteenth Street.
Vice-President, Mrs. M. V. Datcher. 1212 Sixteenth Street.
Treasurer, Mrs. R. L. Brooks. -108 B Street S. E.
Secretary, Mrs. L. M. Kelly, HUH) U Street.

Board of Managers: Mrs. M. L. Meriwether, Dr. I. II.
Lain]), Miss E. A. Cook, Mrs. E. P. Messer, Mrs. C. W. Harris,
Mrs. M. X. Waldron, Miss U. V. Brooks.

Trustees: Rev. F. J. Grimke, Mr. U. S. G. Bassett, Mr.
Aaron Russell.

Advisory Board: Mr. L. M. Hershaw, Chairman; Mr.
Henry Johnson, Mr. E. G. Brooks, Dr. II. L. Bailey, Mr. W. H.
Harris.

STANDING COMMITTEES

Household Committee: Mrs. M. L. Meriwether, 1212 S
Street; Mrs. M. X. Waldron, 1331 V Street; Mrs. E. M. Kelly,
1300 U Street.

Clothing Committee: Mrs. C. W. Harris, 1033 L Street;
Mrs. E. P. Messer, Howard University.

Educational Committee: Miss E. A. Cook. 1118 Sixteenth
Street; Mrs. 1. M. Howard, 2221 Sixth Street; Miss U. V.

Brooks, 027 Eighteenth Street.

Committee on Admission and Dismission: Mrs. M. Y.
Datcher, 1212 Sixteenth Street; Dr. I. 11. Lamb, 2118 Eigh¬
teenth Street.

Superintendent, Mrs. Eva Hood Smith.

Matron, Miss Jennie Edelin.

Teachers: Miss X. A. Plummer; Assistant, Miss E. B.
Lucas; Industrial, Miss S. F. Wilkinson; Assistant, Miss Lo¬
retta Simms.

Kindergarten, Mrs. A. E. Williams.

' *

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‘MwaWVH .3 .A .eiM ,ao]ii^iobni>(

THE TRIEMPH OF THE CROSS

221

REPORT

Washington, D. C., January, 1914.

The President and Members of the National Association for

the Relief of Destitute Colored Women and Children.

An institution which was founded by women prominent
in the affairs of the nation when the nation’s history was in
the rapid process of daily development; an institution which
has adhered rigidly to the ideals and standards fostered by the
noble spirits responsible for its creation and early mainte¬
nance, the Home is this year commemorating its fiftieth anni¬
versary of an uninterrupted and effective community service.

The traditions of a half century’s existence, and the re¬
sultant experience in management, the public spiritedness and
devotion of the Association’s membership, and the individual
aptitude end esprit de corns so abundantly apparent among
those in immediate sunervision and control of the Home, have
been unquestionably die contributing factors to its singularly
successful operations.

The squalid environment from which the inmates are
frequently recruited, and the innumerable possibilities which
accompany such conditions render ahuost inconceivable the
eomnlelc absence of disease among the approximately one
hundred children intrusted to the care of our Superintendent
and her assistants who so fully merit and annually receive,
the Association's expression of unqualified appreciation for
the unremitting efforts and intelligent alertness which so
gratifying a condition attests. Every evidence of motherly
attention, which is a somewhat brief though convincing sum¬
mary is reflected in Ibo cleanliness, the discipline and in the
general demeanor of the children.

The Association is beyond expression grateful to its many
charitable friends who each year re-enroll themselves with¬
out solicitation, as practical benefactors of its little wards,
and to Mr. and Mrs. E. R. McLean the secretary conveys for
each recipient our expression of enthusiastic appreciation for
the individual gifts tendered at Christmas.

It continues a source of profound regret that the spirit
and operation of the Act of Incorporation should have been
subverted by the adoption of a system of local procedure

0 . -i n-. 1 j •»» ! ni }>\ ft a ti snun

‘n*njoJ> n a-ptm !l

222

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

which deprives the Home of its formerly direct appropriation
hv Congress, and which, instead of extending to the children
the advantages of a permanent home and the opportunities
for development which are the avowed and specific objects
of this institution, converts into mere transient boarders
those for whom, during their character forming period Con¬
gress so adequately provided “wholesome instructions with
a view to becoming intelligent, moral and useful members of
society.”

The loss of Mrs. Helen A. Cook, president of the Asso¬
ciation, on November 20, 1913, removes from our midst the
most enthusiastic and active spirit: a friend of friends, loyalty
itself in matters pertaining to the Home, her memory will
remain an inspiration for her former colleagues to supreme
effort and benevolent attainment.

Respectfullv submitted,

L. M. KELLY, Secretarv.

MRS. IDA PLUMMER. BURKE.—

“Caleb. in f* amily and Church Work.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

223

IN MEMORIAL

The embodiment of sincerity and unselfishness, modest
in performance and bold in tiie conception of her philanthro¬
pies, gifted with an almost divinely unerring intuition in the
distribution of her charities, Mrs. Helen Appo Cook remains
to those whom fortune made her associates, an inspiration to
benevolent endeavor and accomplishment.

For more than a quarter of a century Mrs. Cook had
been peculiarly identified with this institution whose founders
were women of national prominence and of whom only the
period following a great national calamity and crisis is pro¬
ductive.

Endowed with a prepossessing gentility and yet with vig¬
orous moral courage and assertiveness, with tactfulness and
yet with unquestionable candor, cultured and with a highly
discriminating intellect, Mrs. Cook was, in the estimation of
all most intimately associated with her, one of those rare
women in whom Cod seems to have concentrated many of
his noblest gifts for the emulation of her fellows and to more
completely impress upon them the possibilities of human
attainment.

By the inscrutable summons on November 20, 1913, her
wards were in the passing of Mrs. Cook deprived of a loyal
and single-minded friend, the Association of a presiding offi¬
cer of perfected judgment and charming personality, and the
community of a life-long and talented contributor to its high¬
est and most noble ideals.

.inorrrniiJifi

224

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

TREASURER’S REPORT

Annual report of Rachel L. Brooks. Treasurer of the National
Association for the Relief of Destitute Colored Women
and Children from January 1, 1013, to December 31, 1013,

inclusive.

RECEIPTS

Balance on hand January 1, 1013 _ $3,454.07

From Board of Charities _ ... _ _ _ — 9,794.21

Board at the Home _ 356.00

Membership dues _ 19.00

Interest ... _ 1,125.00

Returned from Christmas check _ 3.00

Total receipts _ $14,741.88

DISBURSEMENTS

Salaries and extra services _ _ _ $3,708.00

Groceries _ 811.00

Dry goods _ 300.80

Meats _ 1,100.59

Fish _ _ _ .. . _ _ _ 70.50

Washington Gas Eight Company _ _ _ 133.85

Current Expenses _ 120.00

Butter, eggs and cheese _ _ 421.94

Vegetables and fruits _ _ _ _ 348.21

American Ice Comnnny _ 02.07

Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company _ 29.13

Bread _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 593.22

Milk _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1,181.70

Shoes . _ 437.02

Home Oil Safety Company _ 7.48

Coal _ 645.80

Medicines _ _ _ _ ... _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 55.03

Household goods . .... 93.40

Plumbing _ _ _ 150.30

General repairs . 837.94

Printing . . . . 32.50

Miscellaneous . . _ . . . 105.23

Total disbursed
Balance . .

$11,379.03

3,302.25

Total

. $1 1,711.88

Respectfully submitted,
RACHEL L. BROOKS, Treasurer.

IntoT

.-lMUMoiT .wwomi ..I -IMHJAfl

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

225

Report of Attendance from December 31, 1912
to December 31, 1913

Boys. Girls. Total.

December 31, 1912 . . 57 37 94

Admitted, new _ 28 17 45

Returned _ 8 3 11

On roll — . 93 57 150

Discontinued _ _ 33 25 58

Escaped _ _ 4 1 5

Died _ 0 0 0

December 31, 1913 . 56 31 87

EVA HOOD SMITH, Superintendent.
Report of Public Schools, Grades 1*7, ending Dec. 31, 1913

Whole number taught _ 118

Boys _ _ 70

Girls _ 48

Withdrawn _ 27

On roll since Sept., 1913 95
Average daily attendance 83
Average age _ 12.9

First grade pupils . . 20

Second grade pupils . . 13

Third grade pupils _ 13

Fourth grade pupils _ 16

Fifth grade pupils . . ____ 15

Sixth grade pupils . . 3

Seventh grade pupils . 15

NELLIE A. PLUMMER, Principal.
E. B. LUCAS, Assistant Teacher.

Report of Kindergarten for the year ending December 31, 1913

Whole number entered 19

Number of boys . 12

Number of girls - 7

Number withdrawn _ 6

Number promoted to school
September, 1913 _ 3

Number in 1st year’s work 6
Number in 2d year’s work 4

Number on roll . . . 10

Number of visitors . 11

ANNA E. WILLIAMS, Kindergartner.

T£ vs

Jcqpnh<? JRSKKULM .A aLlJ3K

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.8KAIJJIV/ .3 /.XKA

22G

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Report of work finished in Sewing Room for the year ending

December 31, 1913

Dresses

105

Shirts

Gowns _

Chemises _ _ _

. ... .. 2

Drawers _

Caps _

_ 14

Jackets _

Trousers _

182

_ 90

Red-ticks _

_ 7

SARA F. WILKINSON, Seamstress.

Industrial work finished in the Sewing School
during the year 1913

Number of sheets _ _ _

pillow eases _

“ towels _

rollers _

wash cloths _

dust cloths _

aprons _ _

bolter cases (pairs)
“ curtains (pairs) ...

“ iron holders _

“ underskirts _

“ bed ticks _

candy hags . . .

LORETTA C. SIMMS, Sewing Teacher.

14
o

4-4

128

Report of Cooking Class for the year ending December 31, 1913

Whole number taught . . . . . . . . 27

Number of days _ _ _ _ _ _ 31

Number of meals cooked _ _ 31

Number in class . . . . 15

Simple recipes given hv Mrs. Julia Shaw, Director of

Cooking in the Public Schools . . . 7

Recipes from Miss Ellis, Secretary of the Home In.

provcment Association . . . . . . 2

Donations from Mrs. M. I. Hill, Mrs. L. W, Moore, and
Miss Genevieve Thompson.

ANNA E. WILLIAMS, Teacher.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

227

DONATIONS

Mr. and Mrs. Edward R. McLean, dolls, games, and In¬
dian suits for all the children.

Howard University Y. M. C. A., Christmas tree, entertain¬
ment for all the children.

St. Matthias P. E. Chapel, Rew R. Jackson, pastor, Christ¬
mas tree for all the children.

Mrs. Evans, one lounge and two chairs for old folk’s
sitting room.

Rev. George Brent, one shad, one-half dozen herring.

Business High School (white), 500 sandwiches, 1^2 gal¬
lons milk, 1 quart salad dressing, 1 dozen eggs.

Mrs. Martin Gering, 2 hats, clothing, and periodicals.

Dr. Thomas, clothing.

Misses Sarah Moore, Susie Wilder, Lydia Montgomery,
and friends, 100 dyed Easter eggs for children.

Mr. A. E. Colcby, 2 caps, and neckties.

Mrs. Robert Jackson, shoes and clothing.

Mrs. M. Y. Datcher, and Miss Datcher, 8 pairs of shoes.

Mrs. Anna E. Williams, neckties.

Mrs. Jennie Edelin, 2 dresses, 2 aprons, and handker¬
chiefs.

E. H. Smith, 8 dresses.

Miss S. F. Wilkerson, 1 hat and hair ribbon.

Miss Loretta C. Simms, 2 dresses, 1 coat, 2 pairs shoes.

.... Fussclls Ice Cream Company, 5 gallons of ice cream for
Tli anksgiving.

Mrs. Elizabeth Somers, Mt. Vernon Seminary, Christmas

tree.

Mr. Walker J. Robinson and co-workers of Mt. Vernon
Seminary, *7.13, 1 box of oranges, and Christmas tree deco¬
rations.

Christmas turkeys: Mr. Wm. Hahn, 1; Mr. Ewell Con¬
way, 1; Mr. Lansburgh, 1; Mr. James Loekhead, 1; Maury
Dove A Co.,1; Hoover A Denham, 3; Mr. II. C. Coburn, 1;
Gregg National Dairy, 1.

lot muofj oot lu < vciuquioJ ain'nj ik>1 kll'wxuH

tomtei i!3 vioii m ^ ocrr 7 ,.U . i .n< • '.!**: v;.M

.1 ,'fiiud lufloiliiX ^‘JlO

228

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Christmas candies: Mr. N. P. Xapper, 1 l)iicket; Mrs.

M. V. Datcher, Mrs. Rachel E. Brooks, Mrs. Ursula Hawkins,

Miss Mcneto, Mrs. Jane B. Sykes, candy wreath for Christmas

tree and 13 pounds of candy; Mrs. C. W. Harris, (i pounds; S.

A. Reeves (Co), 0 boxes.

Mrs. M. L. Meriwether, 2 books for boys.

Mrs. J. R. Wilder, animal crackers* for all the children.

Friend, 20 pounds of shellbarks.

Rev. J. Henning Nelms, 75 picture books.

Corbv Bakerv, 25 loaves of bread.

«> *

Somersett Waters, 10 pounds of nuts.

Excelsior Market, nuts.

Christmas dolls donated: Mary Diggs, 2: Mildred Esk¬
ridge, 2; Louise Robinson, 2; Miss Martha Garner, 2; Miss
Ursuline V. Brooks, 2; Sinclair Momas, 2: Miss Loretta Simms,
2; Miss Julia R. Bush, ip Miss Cicely Dandridge. 2: Rev. and
Mrs. I. N. Ross, 2; Mrs. M. Clair, 1 ; Jessie Campbell, 1.

Miss Anna J. Paynce and C. E. young ladies, 12 dressed
dolls.

Mrs. M. V. Datcher, aprons for old ladies, and 10 pounds
of candy.

Mrs. Robert Jackson, toys.

Mrs. Ursula Hawkins, toys.

Miss Louise Jacobs, toys.

Mr. Sattlewhitc, 1 barrel of apples, 35-pound basket of
candy.

Miss Nellie Datcher, 82, nuts, and small cakes for candy
bags.

Mr. Thomas E. Barton, $1, wreaths, and candy.

Mr. C. W. Harris, 3 dozen neckties, hats, coats, and other
clothing.

Mr. U. S. G. Bassett, 82, decorations, nuts, and candy.
Donations received for the Kindergarten: Miss G.
Thompson, Miss X. Jackson, gilt paper, and other kindergar¬
ten materials.

teoiftrrcn RanUenrlD

• ■

znottfifloU

THE TRIUMPH OP THE CROSS

229

NAMES OF INMATES

Boys Age

Anderson, Leon _ 12

Bailey, Frank _ 13

Blackston, Charles _ 11

Beckett, George _ 10

Briscoe, Edward _ 11

Brown, Alfred _ 9

Brown, Edward _ 9

Butler, Arthur _ 14

Butler, Hampton _ 13

Butler, Samuel _ 12

Clanton, Aloysius _ 10

Clemens, Nebraska _ 10

Foster, John _ _„12

Grant, Albert _ 10

Green, Benjamin . 12

Boys Age

Temple, John H. _ 11

Thornton, John _ 12

Tucker, Edwin _ 10

Tyler, Arthur _ 7

Tyler, Raymond _ 8

Upshur, Mark _ _ 9

Girls Age

Allen, Adrianna . 8

Bailey, Annie - . 12

Banks, Esterine _ 11

Banks, Ruth _ _ 10

Beckett, Naomi _ 13

Brown, Pearl _ 6

Carter, Maud _ 10

Clanton, Marie . 14

DR. MATTIE V. S. LEE

230

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

NAMES OF INMATES

Green, James - 13

Greenleaf, Wilbert - 12

Grey, Joseph - 12

Griffin, John - 10

Griffin, William - 12

Hedgman, Edward - 14

Henderson, Charles D. - 12

Jackson, Herman - 0

Jackson, Nelson — - 8

Jared, Harry _ -14

Johnson, Harry - 10

Johnson, Jack - 11

Johnson, John II. - 13

Johnson, Matthew - 10

Lawson, Frank _ 11

Mason, Charlie _ 9

Merrow, Charles _ 10

Morgan, James _ 10

Mevers, George _ 10

Neal, Allen ... _ 10

Neal, Thomas _ 11

Newton, Albert _ 11

Osborne, Lawrence _ 12

Perry, Anthony _ 9

Proctor, Nicholas _ _ 10

Reed, Edward _ 11

Robinson, Cornelius _ 10

Scott, John II. _ 11

Sewall, Columbus _ 11

Smith, Herbert _ 8

Taylor, Clarence _ 13

Croffut, Maud _ 12

Graham, Laura _ 13

Green, Bessie _ 15

Grimes, Elmira _ 19

Jackson, Agnes _ 13

Jackson, Clara _ 10

Johnson, Lillian _ 15

Johnson. Rosa _ 12

Johnson, Marie _ 11

Lee, Bertha _ 12

Lee, Flossie — _ G

Lee, Ethel _ 11

Lee, Odie _ 9

Mason, Gertrude _ .10

Motcn, Louise _ 12

Oger, Grace _ 11

Oger, Louise _ 10

Simon, Louise _ 12

Temple, Beatrice _ 13

Wilkinson, Beatrice _ U

Williams, Gertrude . . .13

Wyatt, Ida _ 10

Wyatt, Martha _ . 11

Women Age

Gant, Harriet . ...87

Stokes, Hannah . 80

Bovs . 56

Girls _ _ ...31

Women . 2

Total . . . 89

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

231

ACT OF INCORPORATION

An Act to incorporate the National Association for the Relief
of Destitute Colored Women and Children

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives
of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That
Saylcs J. Bowen, Daniel Breed, George E. Baker, their asso¬
ciates and successors, being members of the said society, by
paying into its treasury the sum of two dollars annually, or
life members by paying fifty dollars at one time, are hereby
incorporated and made a body politic by the name of ‘‘The
National Association for the Relief of Destitute Colored Wo¬
men and Children,” for the purpose of supporting such aged
or indigent colored women and children as may properly
come under the charge of such Association; to provide for
them a suitable home, board, clothing and instruction, and
to bring them under Christian influence, and by that name
shall have perpetual succession, with power to use a common
seal, to sue and be sued, to plead and be impleaded, in any
court of the United States; to collect subscriptions, make by¬
laws, rules and regulations needful for the government of
said corporation and not inconsistent with the laws of the
United States; to have, hold and receive real and personal es¬
tate by purchase, gift, or devise; to use. sell or convey the
same for the purposes and benefit of said corporation, and to
choose such officers and teachers as may be deemed neces¬
sary, prescribe their duties, and fix the rate of their compen¬
sation.

And be it further enacted. That the officers of
said Association shall consist of a President. Yi ce- President,
Secretary, Treasurer, and a Board of Managers to be composed
of nine members, the whole to constitute an Executive Com¬
mittee, whose duly it shall be to carry into effect the plans

and purposes for which said Association was formed; all of
which officers shall be elected on the fifteenth day of March
next, and bold their oil ices until the second Tuesday of Janu¬
ary, eighteen hundred and sixtv-four, on which day, and annu¬
ally on the second 1 uesdav of January, in each succeeding

year, at the annual meeting of said Association, which shall

he bold on such day. their successors shall he elected, and
hold their oil ices for the term of one year, and until their suc¬
cessors shall lie duly elected and in case of a vacancy it shall
be filled by the other members of the Executive Committee.

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vl odl lo arxlmom tmIIo o<H vd boHil od

232

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

SEC. 3. And be it further enacted. That said society may
receive into a house or building, to be provided by it, any
destitute child or children, at the request of the parents or
guardians, or next friend, or the mother, if the father be dead,
or has abandoned his family, or does not provide for their
support, or is an habitual drunkard, such parents, guardians,
or next friend or mother making a written surrender of such
child or children. The Superintendent, or other officers in
immediate charge may, with the concurrence of the Executive
Committee, or of a Board of Trustees, to be appointed by said
Committee, and to consist of three persons, citizens of Wash¬
ington, govern the inmates, preserve order, enforce discipline,
impart instruction in useful knowledge of some regular course
of labor, and establish rules for the preservation of health,
and for their proper physical, intellectual, and moral im¬
provement. The Trustees may, with the consent of the Ex¬
ecutive Committee, bind out by indenture such children as
may be deemed capable of learning trades or of becoming use¬
ful in other occupations, to such persons as will give them the
benefit of good examples, wholesome instructions, and other
means of improvement in virtue and knowledge, and the op¬
portunity of becoming intelligent, moral, and useful members
of society.

SEC. 4. And be it further enacted. That it shall be lawful
for said Association, by and with the advice and consent of
the Secretary of War, to occupy, for the objects of said Asso¬
ciation, any lands, not exceeding one hundred acres, and the
improvements thereon, which the Government may now own
or may hereafter acquire contiguous to the city of Washing¬
ton, by confiscation or purchase, such occupation to continue
lor such a number ot years as the Secretary of War mav, in
writing, prescribe.

Approved February 14, 1803.

i: ! tt ,m>'; x*)fll j in 'MiiovoKifni

•Mmiliftn ol noi)n<iuv<o i i >u« .WAh-Htq n> noiJr;ugiiao*> 7 cl ,not

.odivj«oici .^uiJhv/

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

233

BY-LAWS

Adopted by the Association, 1866

1. Any person may become a member of the Association
by paying the sum of two dollars. At the meetings of tiie
Association ten members shall constitute a quorum. At the
meetings of the Executive Committee live shall constitute a
quorum for transacting business.

(This By-Law was amended June 10, 1870. as follows:

“Any person may become a member of the Association, upon
nomination at a regular meeting of the Association, by a
vote of two-thirds of the members present, and by paying
into the treasury the sum of iwo dollars. At the meetings
of the Association ten members shall constitute a quorum.
At the meetings of the Executive Committee live shall consti¬
tute a quorum for transacting business.

(This By-Law further amended October 13, 1891, by in¬
serting after “treasury" the word annually; also, on January
8, 1895, that the annual membership fee be one dollar.)

2. At the stated meetings of the Executive Committee,
and at the quarterly meetings of the Association, the order of
business shall be: First, minutes of the preceding meeting;
second, reports of committees and officers; third, unfinished
business, new business, adjournment.

3. The President, or. in her absence, the Vice-President
or President pro tern., shall preside at the meeting's, preserve
order, and see that the officers perform their duties, and all
drafts upon the treasury, approved by the managers, shall be
signed by the presiding officer at the meeting at which they
have been passed.

4. The Secretary shall keep correct minutes of the pro¬
ceedings of the meetings of the Association and of the man¬
agers, and give due notice of the' place of all meetings a
notice of the annual and quarterly meetings of the Associa¬
tion to be advertised for at least two days in a daily paper
published in Washington City. The Secretary shall conduct
the correspondence and countersign all drafts upon the treas¬
ury.

!J- Sf iu'i »' it fi. '* hi i •: • l >rJ* mRI^I rnn J r>l :^if! to

> • j . • , .

•/ittlvm* Of J I . v J i ) fiolj|iiiiU«r// ni borfeildtHf

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

5. Tlic Treasurer shall take charge of all moneys belong¬
ing to the Association not otherwise ordered by the Board, and
shall deposit them in such institutions or invest them in such
ways as the Board may direct, and shall make no payment
except by its order. All bills ordered by the Board shall be
paid by the Treasurer. She shall report in writing at each
monthly meeting, to the Executive Committee the amount re¬
ceived and expended during the month, also all indebtedness.
She shall keep a list of the contributors and an accurate ac¬
count of the receipts and expenditures of the institution,
which account shall at all times be open to the inspection of
the managers. She shall make a written report to the annual
and each quarterly meeting of the Association and give bonds
in the sum of one thousand dollars for the faithful perform¬
ance of her trust.

6. At the first stated meeting held after the annual meet¬
ing of the Association, the Executive Committee shall elect
from their number the following standing committees: A
Committee upon Education, Committee upon Clothing, a
Committee upon Household, Committee upon Admission and
Dismission.

7. Of the Committee upon Admission and Dismission —
The Committee, or one of its members, shall visit the Home
once each month. To this Committee all applications for
admission shall he referred. Thev shall keep a book of reg-
istrv, in which thev shall enter the name and age of every
woman and child received, the date of admission, whence and
from whom received. If the woman or child has near rela¬
tives, note the degree of kindred and residence of same; ascer¬
tain whether the children have had measles, whooping cough
or small-pox, and whether they have been vaccinated. These
particulars shall be recorded, together with other circum¬
stances which may be of importance to them or to the insti¬
tution at a future day. If the child be brought by a parent,
obtain his or her signature to the form provided for the
same. When children are placed out. state particularly with
whom, the residence and occupation of master and mistress,
and note the date of removal from the Home whether by
death or otherwise. \\ hen children are placed on trial, if re-
l t t li.ill be well clothed by their employer, or he be
required to pay twenty-live cents for as many weeks as they

rv '• . ; no I '

Iji!) >/lJ Jioviyjoi I ■ i i i i *> biin nemo//

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

235

have served him. A promise to do so shall he made by him
in writing, on receiving the child.

8. The Household Committee, or one of its members,
shall visit the Home once a month, and oftener if necessary.
They shall see that its affairs are administered with order,
prudence, and economy; that proper attention is paid to the
habits, manners, and persons of the children, and that peace,
harmony, and domestic religion are cultivated; and, whilst
obedience is required of the children to the duly appointed
officers, no corporal punishment shall he allowed. They also
shall keep a hook of the records of all gifts and benefits con¬
ferred on the institution which do not appear on the Treas¬
urer’s record. Thev shall make a monthly call on the matron
for a report in writing of the same.

0. It shall he the duty of the Committee on Clothing to
see that the women and children arc supplied seasonably with
all necessary clothing, including ha Is, caps, shoes, and other
articles of wearing apparel which may he needed, on leaving
the Home. They shall report when necessary to the Board.

10. The Committee on Education, or one of its members,
shall visit the school once a month, and provide furniture,
hooks, and whatever may he needed for the use of the sciiooi.

1. The above named committees shall render monthly
reports to the Board, all of which shall he in writing, as well
as all resolutions and resignations. The Executive Commit¬
tee shall elect three Trustees, to continue in office until their
successors are chosen. A special meeting of the Association
may he called by the Board at any time, due notice being given.

D O

12. The By- 1 -aws may he amended at any regular or duly
called meeting of the Association by a vote of two-thirds of
those present.

I > it# lov v, r>\ oill lo 1 mfo‘>rri I>off fso

230

OUT OF T1IE DEPTHS, OR
AMENDMENTS TO BY-LAWS

13. Children under three years of age will not be ad¬
mitted to this Home.

14. The Association, at any regular or duly called meet¬
ing of the Association, may, by a vote of two-thirds of those
present, expel a member, but the vote shall be taken by yeas
and nays, and be recorded by the Secretary in the journal of
the proceedings. — Adopted June 12, 1870.

15. Members of the Association, other than members of
the Executive Committee, shall be eligible to position on any
of the regular or special committees of the Association. —
Adopted January 10, 1880.

16. The Executive Committee shall have power to appoint
matron, assistant matron, and such other officers as may be
necessary to carry on the work of the Association, and, fur¬
ther, they shall have power to remove such ofTicers by a ma¬
jority vote. — Adopted January 10, 1893.

REV. F. G. MALL, — A Friend and Brother, —

Preacher, Pastor, Teacher, — Full of Sympathy, Sincerity, Patience, Loyalty.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

237

THE STORUMS

In the home of father and mother Storum, in Buffalo,
N. Y., lived their two children. I have spoken of James,
who possessed an enviable character from youth. But his
sister, Sarepta, embodied all the joy. and sunshine that it is
possible for a human being. She knew everybody, every¬
body knew her, and everybody loved her. One has seldom
seen a more devoted daughter than she was. After the pass¬
ing of her mother, her father made his home with his son,
here in Washington. So for vears, Prof. Storum at Wavland,
and Miss Sarepta at Orphans’ Home, they were the delight
of school and church and community. I loved her as a be¬
loved sister, until 189i), when she passed away at her old
home in Buffalo. Rev. J. E. Nash is still pasturing the
church where she used to worship, before coming to Wash¬
ington.

I think Miss Sarah F. Bullard succeeded dear Miss Storum
as industrial teacher at The Home.

From Charleston, S. C., there came into The Home life.
Miss Romcna Hunter, a graduate of Howard University.

Miss Hunter brought much strength and power to the
school, as well as the kindergarten. She was the niece-in¬
law of Prof. F. J. Cardozo, principal of M Street High School.
She was an Episcopalian indeed! Later she married Rector
E. A. Jensen, and they now live in Trenton, X. J., with their
children. We are still loving sisters, as of Orphans’ Home
days.

As to Mrs. Anna Eliza Williams, whom everyone knows,
I need not do more than mention her name. We thought
Miss Storum could fill any place, no matter who was absent,
but Mrs. Williams excelled all. For twenty-five years she
was our kindergartner. Being short and small, the children
must have taken her for one of themselves. I know of no
child, from oldest to the voungest that did not love her as
their mother. Her consideration of the servants, and her
care for the “Old People” (usually twelve old women past
work), was equal to her loving care of the children. Her
pay in cash was very small. Yet she spent a large part of

T" ' ’•«. • l

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-n :nai^nij| oili «, How SB .loodos

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

it buying combs, brushes, vaseline, handkerchiefs, books,
candy, fruit, etc., not only for her kindergarten, but for the
graded school pupils, as well as the old women. Scarcely a
letter came to The Home from former pupils that did not
say: “Give my love to Mrs. Williams.” When the children’s
parents or other relatives came on “Visiting Day,” they al¬
ways found a friend in her, as well as in the Superintendent
and Matron. If ever a teacher in the District of Columbia
received a pension for moro-lhan-faithfulncss to duty, it
should he Mrs. Anna Eliza Williams. With such a high
character, and such unselfish devotion, I consider her one of
the just, being more than glad to love her as one of my
“Inner Circle” of friends. As she lias given the “cup of
cold water” to so many, may she never want. As a com¬
munity worker, I think she has no equal. If one is sick or
dying, there she is to bless.

My long service at The Home blessed me with the influ¬
ence of O, so many others whose names I'd like to call, but
cannot, two of whom I must not omit. There was the boys’
nurse. Miss Malinda Grigsby, who held such influence over
her fifty to seventy-five hoys that it was a marvel to us all,
as she was not educated nor trained for the work. With
Malinda, it was natural mother-wit. It was hard to tell
whether the children loved Miss Heaeock or Miss TJndy the
more. As with the boys, so with the girls, we had Mrs. Lizzie
Hutton as nurse for years and years.

While Lizzie was very different from Malinda, still she
was a splendid mother. Many were Miss Ileacoek’s cares and
anxieties if either nurse was absent.

MISS LORETTA SIMMS

This is intended to pay tribute to every precious child
that came under the care of Orphans' Home, hut more espe-
ciallv those whom I have tried to influence during mv more
than thirty-six years there. How I'd like to call the names
of every one!

When I entered there that Monday, January 8, 1883, one
little boy about 0 years old was not in class because he was
sick. That was James Wallace, now an honored citizen of
Brentwood, Mil.

•/o! rmWirti1 01M ■rtilloilw

8KKIB ATT3H0.I 88IM i|

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

239

Then there was a little girl, for whom we all had great
sympathy, because she was very lame. She was very slender,
having the smallest feet and ankles. So she could walk but
a few steps without falling. After years, the ladies secured
braces for her and then she could walk much better. She is
not tall and is still slender. Her black hair was thick and
long. But intelligence does not depend on size nor anything
else except the brain. After completing her grade work in
the Home School, she was sent to Scotia Seminary. She
early showed her ability to govern the girls, then girls and
boys. She is very industrious, and loves to sew and knit.
She always was extremely kind and thoughtful of me.

Many lonely hours for her and the children were driven
away because she learned to play the piano and organ.
Though loo lame to pump the organ, her will found a way —
one of the children was always glad to Dump for her. Later
years, she was able to teach the children many songs, and re¬
hearse them in their Christmas music, as well as for their
every day prayer service.

Scotia Seminary.

Concord, N. C., January 29, 1898.

My dear Miss Plummer:

Yours was received, and you can imagine how glad I
was to hear from you. I know you had a delightful time
Christmas. Well, I will be with you next Christmas. The
smallpox is pretty near Concord, but I hope it will not take
place here. I am not feeling like myself today as I have a
cold and it makes me feel sleepy. I suppose there is three
years difference in the Home since 1 left. 1 am anxious to
see the grounds, etc.

Have you heard Mr. Lindsay, the fine musician, play?
Whenever music started, he started, too. He has given sev¬
eral concerts in town. Thursday evening, he gave one in
Scotia, and I must say that words will not express it. He
plays the guitar and a ten cent mouth organ at the same time,
lie made the mouth organ talk to imitate a child from 2 to
5 years. It certainly talked. This is one of the sentences:
I want my mother, that’s what I do. He imitated the train
going from Washington to Baltimore and from Baltimore to
New York. I can’t explain it to you, but I can only sav that
if you heard him you would not want to go to bed at all.

■ 1 : ) \ '■

ori onij;nmi n< i ijo* bnn .boviooon si // ni k (

.1 l i ooeia noH Mil ni oortonoTtib pobot

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oil .botoGte oiauni novorndV/

; Jc bod oJ og oJ U\&n Jon 1)1 now uoy laid Incoil uo< li

240

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

We are having spring weather and it is very sickening.
I have made myself a whole suit and now I am making an¬
other.

My class in arithmetic are working in Compound quan¬
tity. I enjoyed Harriet’s letter she wrote me a letter some
time ago. You can see hv the mistake that I am not in a
mood for better writing, but if 1 put it off why it will not get
done. It is a part of school life to go through a case of sick¬
ness. I haven't bad to go to bed for sickness, not since I
left Home.

Remember me kindly to your classes. I will have to
stop now as my thoughts are wandering here and there.

I had a dream about Miss llcacoek last night.

Love to vourself,

* * •

Sincerely, Loretta Simms.

She became industrial teacher, in charge of sewing. She
had charge of the children's study hour. Today, she is the
matron with twenty to fifty children under her care.

Mrs. Meriwether and her family look especial interest
in this pupil. Rut no one could live, day in and day out,
with Miss Eliza Heacock and Mrs. Coralic Franklin Cook as
did Loretta and not learn how. Hence her abilitv. Wc are

all justly proud of “Miss Loretta.”

Later there came to us a lame bov, Cornelius Rrucc.
He, too, made good. 1 1 is penmanship was excellent. After
years wo lost him. lie had splendid control over the boys.

Dear Mrs. Hall:

Colored Orphans' Home.

Washington. D. C.

January 3, 1890.

Our tree was decorated with Hags, and a great many
more pretty things, which I cannot mention. We had a
great many presents hanging on the tree, that it would take
me a long time (<» fell you. Rut 1 can tell you a few of the
presents, we bad around the tree. There were hags of candy,
hooks, baskets, aprons, stoves, and a large basket of apples.
We had a great many visitors among whom were Mr. and

ora

liar, 'tryvnia .r'.rnjffiu . I o i;<t >;lood

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

241

Mrs. Pomeroy, Mrs. Purvis, Mrs. Merriwether, Prof. Storum,
Rev. Wiseman, Mr. Stewart, who were ministers, and yourself.
I mentioned these because I know them. I played a march
while the children fded in. After all were seated, we chanted
the Lord's prayer. Then the children sang two pieces, after
which one of our girls spoke a piece relating to Christ, then
all the children sang another song, after which came a dia¬
logue, which was spoken by several children, then the chil¬
dren sang another song, after which came the kindergarten
plav, after which Mr. Pomeroy gave a speech and Mr. Stew¬
art spoke also. Another song was sung, then the presents
were distributed. The children were talking very loudlv
what they would receive, so there was a great noise in the
room, because they were so anxious. After waiting a long
time, I received a hag of candy, which I opened and began
eating the cakes. Waiting a little hit longer, my teacher
handed me my present, which was a necktie, and a blank
book. A week before Christmas. Miss Ileacock gave me a
nice pocketbook. As we had a “Merry Christmas,” and hope
to have a “Happy New Year,” 1 wish you the same also.

Affectionately yours,

Cornelius Bruce.

Mr. J. R. Keene:

Colored Orphans’ Home,

Washington. D. C.,

April 23, 1803.

Dear Sir: Not long ago I was seeking an employment,
but got very much disappointed, indeed, that I resolved never
to try again. Rut one flay, while sitting on mv shoe-bench
and thinking of my school daws, you came in view. I could
picture your coming in our school and of your standing near
my desk and asking me about my studies. 1 immediately
thought you would help me to this effect as you might know
of so many places that ought to he tilled. To anv favor
which you will kindly show me, will be greatly appreciated by

C. Bruce.

To you, O. my children! Each one is held deep down
in the dungeon of my heart! Like Ruth. Miss Loretta,
Miss Pauline L. Mack, and Mrs. Maud Johnson-McElrov will
not “return from following after me.” Everv once in a
while they will let me know that I am not forgotten.

* ) I ,

**•'

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212

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

April 17, 1927

My dear Miss Plummer:

Just a line to you at this glorious season of the year. I
was so pleased to see Nellie and another of your nieces at
“The Gospel Feast Party,” and 1 am hoping that you will he
able to attend. Before when they were here, I only missed
one night and I am hoping to do equally as well this time.
I understand they are to be here more than a month, begin¬
ning Easter Sunday. Then, loo. Miss Plummer, I am want¬
ing you to share with me the joys that I have been having
since AJphonso has accepted Christ as his personal Saviour.
What J have prayed and agonized for ever since my own
conversion, more than twenty years ago. I cannot express
my feeling but some day I hope to have the sweet privilege
of a heart to heart talk with you.

Ahvavs vour own,

Pauline L. Mack.

My boys remember, too, Mr. Jesse Campbell, who served
“overseas,” now in Washington, sent me many records for
my vietrola, while in Pittsburgh.

Orphans’ Home,

January 5, 1903,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Miss Plumemr:

All your scholars wish you a “Happy New Year.”

Please accept. Miss Plummer, from a few of your boys,
a small New Year’s gift.

Tour affectionate scholars: Abraham Smart, John Byng,
Clarence Sligo, George Holmes, and John Wiley.”

The above letler is attached to a beautiful white book,
written by Charles Kingsley — “Out of the Deep.”

It marked the twentieth year of my stay at The Home,
appointed by the great W. II. A. Wormlev, January 1. 1883,
now January 19, ’03.

So many of my boys have turned out to be such fine
men — Messrs. Jesse Forrest, Maurice and William Drum¬
mond, Harry Jared. James Higgins, Clinton Jackson, John
II. Johnson, Samuel Butler, Guy Eskridge. Elder Neal, Al¬
ston Pierce, Furman Savels, Alexander and Frank Upsher,
Hubert and William Wiicy, and Andrew Williams are only

a few of the hundreds that 1 have loved— never forgetting
the girls!

! »

MflnomiJPI 2^ i 1 4 -l/ioQ
f r}< PA t? ?}nv \[>\ n tt'TcUuh?. niov f( A

« • i * _ _

qosU snif lt> ti;0,# — fdlB&niX whrM? yd n.oJJiT/r

.r yiounitl ,/olnnoW M .11 .7/ Icora on j /d tolnioqqs

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

243

So, because of their lameness, no one asked to take them
into a family. What a blessing their lameness proved to
The Home. They have brightened the corner where they
are. It was well for Miss Heacock when Loretta Simms and
Cornelius Bruce could govern the rest of the children.

REV. W. J. HOWARD. D. D..

A Friend and Beloved Brother of Humanity, —

A Waylandite, who caught the G. M. P. King Spirit.

244

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER XI

Sarah Miranda Plummer-IIoward-Clark

Seeing how hard it was for her to go from place to nlncc.
often miles awa’T alone, to build im t lir* church, she married
Samuel Clark. September 2. 1808. who had followed th°
Union Armv from Ids home in Savannah. Georgia. He was
most industrious, though not so spirituallv-minded. nor
could he read or write. One daughter was horn to them.
Miranda named her “Emily" after mother, and “Jane" after
her sister. "Margaret Jane. “Emma .Tailed’ as we called her,
was horn November 2. 1870. We idolized that child, not onlv
because of tier intelligence, hut because of our great love for
her mother. Tims, her boy and girl were sacrificed for
others (the church). Her son never showed a disposition
to follow his mother’s deep devotion, but earlv showed a de¬
sire to he wayward. He died in 1888, aged 34 years. Her
daughter, who will he of) vears old next November, ^till lives
with her father in Bladensburg. Sorrv to sav. tliev do not at¬
tend t lie church (nor anv church), for which the wife and
mother gave her life. Although lie is one of the seven origi¬
nal members.

Miranda often told us that she never meant to rust out.
but to wear out in the service of the Master. This she did
literally. Her brother, II. Y. Plummer, would have had little
success in establishing the Bladensburg Union had il not been
for her great sacrifices fluring the first four vears. Miranda

was then doing general housework for Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Bryan
(cooking, washing, ironing, and swooning) , for the sum of
ten dollars per month, in June, 1870. she gave her entire
month’s wages to start the Union. Each person was ad¬
mitted for 82.,)0 each. For the said ten dollars she entered
Emma Peterson (a foster sister). Robert Plummer, Nellie
Plummer, and herself. Letting the storobill and other ex¬
penses go. until she had worked, and worked hard for another
month. I he Half ol the sacrifices she and mother made will
never he told. That my brother, sister, and I are •still mem¬
bers makes me justly proud.

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TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

245

Steadfast, fixed purpose, immovable, always abounding
in the works of t lie Lord, fidelity, loyalty, love for all, espe¬
cially her family, with Henry in particular, are but feeble
words describing her character. There is no way to describe
her until “we know as we are known/’

But it was that telegram that we received on February 10,
1905, telling that her brother Henry had passed to the great
beyond, that shook the very foundation of her soul. She
refused to live without him. who had been so near and dear
to her. Dear father was so feeble. We looked to Miranda
to sustain us as she had always done. Alas! pneumonia de¬
veloped. Reaching her bdrd birthday, February 2d, 1905,
she was very ilk Rapidly did the change come! We stood
helpless !

On Saturday, March 4. 1905, nearing noon, she looked
steadfastly into the heavens and was no more here, after
telling me that SHE was going to the inauguration of Jesus
Christ the righteous, while WE were going to Theodore
Roosevelt's.

The following Obituary dictated by herseelf four years
before she ceased to be, is a lilting closing for one who had
undaunted faith in Cod: that is. it is her own summary of
her life work, written by Rev. 0. W. M. Lucas.

The monument that Cod built through her:

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246

OUT OF TIIF DEPTHS. OR

OBITUARY AND HISTORY

Bladensburg, Md.

October 3, 1901.

Beginning of the Baptist Church

Begun by Sarah Miranda Plummer-Howard-Clark, eldest
daughter of Adam F. Plummer. She was carried South in
slavery times, I860, at the age of eighteen years. While
away (six years), she embraced Christ, whom she found was
precious to her soul. “I was received in the City of New
Orleans into the First African Baptist Church and baptized
bv Nelson Saunders, who was l lien Pastor, March, 1864.
And God blessing and enabling me to get home to meet
my relatives and friends again by mother and father sending
brother Henry for me. \Ye reached home Friday night,
October 19, 1866. It has been thirty four years since this.
I feel that I am coming down to the Jordan now. WTe were
eight children. Mother died since. I have many friends
over there where I am going, and there is no grieving
there. It was revealed to me that my people at home were
in the dark. Thus I began. I was received into the Second
Baptist Church, D. C., with two converts by Brother Sandy
Alexander of Georgetown Church. Then began the work
from a family prayer meeting at my father's house. Then
in a short time I had seven converts: H. V. Plummer, E. Q.
Plummer, Samuel Clark. Camilla Morris. Julia Lomax, Fan¬
nie Mason, and Emily Plummer were baptized at the Second
Baptist Church, May, 1867. \Yo were eight set apart to
worship God in Bladensburg. The eight children, with my
mother, were added to the church. Then we went on. We
are still going on in that direction. Hence we moved from
father's house and rented a little church in the village of
Bladensburg. We remained there until we bought this
place, 1873, from which 1 expect to be buried. 1 want to
have a pleasant coming together as though we were holding
a pleasant prayer meeting. Then all my conflicts will bo
pver. Then you may sing “Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

247

From which none ever wakes to weep.” Then I leave these
words with you: “Go, preach my Gospel, saith the Lord.”
Select a sermon from the sixth chapter of St. Mathew and the
fifth chapter. Fourteenth and fifteenth chapters of St. John
to be read, prayers to each. The twenty-seventh Psalm. The
particular verse here God reveals to his servant here in
trouble. The wonder was, did mother and father know I
wanted to see them and could not. The answer: “When
mother and father forsake you, God will take you up.”

Now, Brethren, I want you to preach Jesus and Him cru¬
cified, always without favor or affection. Not for friendship
sake; have man to know he must repent and be baptized
in Jesus' name, and they shall be saved, every one of them.

Sing “Jerusalem, my happy home.” when 1 am brought
in. Have the pastor from the Second Baptist Church, who¬
ever he may be and brother the pastor of this church if it's
Brother Lucus it is all right. If the brothers of the famiiv are
not home, send for them. Let all come together.

I was born on Saturdav, the twentv-sixth of February,
1842. Have the funeral at three o’clock in the evening,
right on time. This is the desire of Sarah Miranda Clark.

Brother II. V. Plummer was ordained and became a
minister, and the first he baptized in the church were: John
Moss, Robert Plummer, Julia Bumbry, and Lizzie Williams.
Four should be a unit, even number. But Judas was there
and he is here today.

In the struggle with this work, God blessed me with a
brother to help me. After Brother Henry went away, he
sent me Saunders to help me. And mother was willing to
go. The two youngest were, fourteen years old and able to
keep themselves. God has blessed us with two preachers,
one is a farmer and the other is a doctor. He left sister
Magg and sister Nellie home with father and with the promise
that Emily Jane should have a part. Tins little sister Nellie
was ten years old when she was received and baptized by
Brother Thompson of Baltimore. She had a hard time to
get in being young. People think little children do not un¬
derstand. She has proven faithful thus far. As the Spirit
said to her: “You shall have a scat among my people and
cause many eyes to open..”

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218

OUT OF T1IR DEPTHS, OR

Our pastor we have now, his fattier, mother, and sisters
were baptized with us at the little church. Then we raised
a little church in Montgomery County named Sitka Baptist
Church. We started in a family prayer meeting there at
Rachel Johnson’s house. Hence I moved on down to Ard-
wich, about five miles from Bladensburg. They are doing
tolerably fair there. The minister in charge is Brother Gib¬
bons of Mt. Carmel Church of Washington, D. C.

Death may dissolve mv bodv now,
And bear my spirit home.

Why do my movements move so slow.
Nor my salvation come.

With heavenly weapons I have fought
The battle of the Lord,

Finished my course and kept the faith
Now await God’s sure reward.

God has laid up in heaven for me,

A crown that will not fade

The righteous judge at that great day

Shall place it on my head.

Nor has the king of grace decreed
That prize for me alone.

But all that love and long to see
The appearance of His Son.

She never will be forgotten, as the following shows:

IN MEMORIAM

February 20, 1925

To the Glory of God and in Loving Memory of the 83rd
Annheisaiy ol the Birth ol the Founder and Mother
of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS
“LIFE’S RAILWAY TO HEAVEN”

1. Life is like a mountain railroad,

With an engineer that’s brave;

We must make the run successful,
From the cradle to the grave.

Watch the curves, the fills, the tunnels;
Never falter, never quail.

| Keep your hand upon the throttle. |

| And your eye upon the rail.

2. You will roll up grades of trial;

You will cross the bridge of strife;
See that Christ is your Conductor
On this lightning train of life.
Always mindful of obstruction
Do vour duty, never fail.

3. You will often find obstructions;

Look for storms of wind and rain;
On a fill, or curve, or trestle,

They will almost ditch your train;
Put your trust alone in Jesus,

Never falter, never fail.

4. As you roll across the trestle,

Spanning Jordan's swelling tide.

You behold the Union Depot

Into which your train will glide;
There you’ll meet the Superintendent,
God the Father, God tiie Sou,

With a hearty, joyous plaudit.

“Weary pilgrim, welcome home.”

Chorus

Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us.

Till we reach that blissful shore;
Where the angels wait to join us
In thy praise for evermore.

249

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

SARAH MIRANDA P LU MMER-1 10 W AR D-C L ARK,

Born February 20, 1842 | Founder, October 19, 1866

Died March 4, 1905
Henry Vinton Plummer

Because Henry did one thing- — went to New Orleans,
found Miranda and brought tier home, we though t lie could
do anything! However, he did do manv, many things for
others. When two and a half years old, he was critically ill.
While others watched for him to breathe his last, father put
him into a warm bath in which lifc-ever-lasting was steened.
Needless to say, he recovered. Once grandmother couldn’t
get the door open. He said: “I’ll open it for you. grandma.”
Although but three years old. he pushed a chair to the door,
climbed on the chair and lifted the latch for her. During
his lifetime he was ever opening doors for people.

July, 1867. he married Miss Julia Lomax, of Virginia.
Eight hoys and one girl were born to them. When their
father drew near the close of his life, ho reviewed the char¬
acteristics of each of his children, in a letter to me. beginning
with the eldest. He so desired them to be great and useful,
that he named them for the groat people of his acquaintance.
First born, Adam Francis. Thaddeus Stevens, Charles Henry,
Charles Sumner, Henry Vinton, Anna Bumbry, Ulysses Grant,
Ferdinand Hall, and Hanibel Lincoln, all Marylanders ey-
cept the last two. They were born at Fort McKinny, Wy¬
oming.

On running away from Col. Thompsons' in the early
spring of 1802, his Aunt, Mrs. Margaret Tyler, kept him until
he enlisted in the U. S. Navy. lie served there for three
years. In 1865, lie became coachman and gardener for R. F.
Guy of Hvattsville, Md. In 1806, he went to New Orleans
for his sister, Miranda.

Mrs. Guy's relatives lived in Washington. She did not
need the cars, for she had a beautiful carriage, drawn by
two fine horses. One snow white, the other jet black. With
Henry to drive those horses she had nothing to fear. As I
pow write, 1 see the Guy house. Every Sunday on inv wav to

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

251

church I pass the street which was their driveway, where
Fve seen Henry guide those horses into the Maryland boule¬
vard, heading for Washington.

Remained with R. F. Guy until he received an appoint¬
ment as watchman in the U. S. Post Office. Washington,
D. C. (1871). He held the same until he received his com¬
mission as Chaplain in the U. S. Army from President Arthur.
He went west to Fort Rilev, Kansas, August 6, 1881. It was
a dark day for us when he left us. having no oilier leader in
sight, either in church or state. He was pastor of St. Paul's
Baptist Church, Bladenslnirg, Md., 1870-1881. Was pastor
of Mt. Carmel Church. Washington, D. C., 1882-1884. He
lost his commission as Chaplain in the U. S. Cavalry in 1895.
He became pastor in Wichita. Ivans. Now his life work was
nearing its close. I shall never forget the visit I made in
1898, to my beloved brother while he was stationed at Fort
Robinson, Nebraska. It was there I met Col. ("has. Young.
Of all the joys blest memory shall bring to me that summer's
joys excel all!

In the summer of 1899, H. Y. Plummer visited his old
home, having been sent for, to preach the 28th Anniversary
of the Bladensburg Union, of which he was founder.

It seemed we were never so happy. It was well that he
came then. For one other anniversary would have been too
late for him to have seen his choicest friend. Rev. Ferdinand
G. Hall, who passed away December 25, 1899. Our family
group was taken in honor of his coming. In August. Henry
returned to Kansas City. Kansas, to labor and to wait.

On the morning of February 10, 1905, a wire brought
the saddest news — our Henry was no more. It would take
volumes to give you a faint idea of what he was to us here,
in the home, in church, and in state. I close with a quota¬
tion from one of his letters: “He saved others. Himself he
could not save.”

“Thou Judge of quick and dead.
Before whose bar severe.

With holy iov or guilty dread.

We all shall soon appear;

Our cautioned souls prepare
For that tremendous day.

And fill us now with watchful care,
And stir us up to pray.”

m om iimt ho uinwiaHT

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

2f>2

Elias Cupid Quincy Plummer

E. Q., as we call him, was twenty years old the day after
Henry’s arrival from New Orleans with his sister, Miranda.
He was baptized May, 18(57, and became one of the seven
original members of St. Paul’s Baptist Church. He was the
first to teach us to sing by “note,” our first chorister. He
taught school and did much church work at Leesburg. Ya.
He left us and joined the Methodist Conference. He still has
charge of a church, although in his eighty-second year.

He lias been four times married. About 6 years ago
he married Mrs. Lucy Jane Lucas-Pinn. It is needless to
speak of the love and respect we all have for this last wife.
He has two sons and two daughters — Robert, Dr. Harry V.
were born to Mrs. Clara Plummer, and Mabel and Bessie were
born to Mrs. Martha Plummer. l)r. Harry V. Plummer works
in the Post Off ice, Washington. D. C., having finished a course
in pharmacy two years ago. He is a splendid character, and
is fond of music. The other children live in Hutchinson.
Kansas. Mrs. Bessie Plummer Evans, whom I've never seen,
communicates with me. Her little daughter plays, or is or¬
ganist for her mother who is leader of the choir. This is the
son (E. Q.), mother yearned to see just before her death.
Being left at “Three Sisters,” he was reared away from
mother from the age of five years until LS()2, eleven years!

Mrs. Pinn was the widow of the great James Pinn. Thev
have two sons. Rev. J. Luther Pinn. the beloved pastor of the
First Baptist Church of Georgetown, and an instructor in the
School of Religion, Howard University. Mr. Paul Calvin
Pinn is an employee of the Government.

Elias was a good scholar at Wayland and Beloit. Wis. He
could have easily excelled Henry as a speaker, other things
being equal.

Julia Ann Caroline Maria Plummcr-RufTin

At the age of seven, Julia was taken into the “Great
House,” to he trained as a seamstress, in particular, and
many things in general. When we were born, she claimed
me as hers. So for these sixty-five years, I haven’t been
long out of her thoughts. At the age of fourteen she was

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

253

hired. December 18. 1803, as wns mother, nt tlie Hyatt mnn-

bv Mrs. R. F. Guy, as a nurse (we bought our land from tlie
Guys) .

She was with tlie Guys when Lincoln was shot, and saw
his funeral train on its way to Illinois. That same year she
went to work in Washington, being sent in the care of an
actfiia in lance, Mrs. Ann Dotson. This is why she was not
home when sister Miranda came, October 10, 1800.

Thus at the age of 17, Julia was learning to read, spell,
and write her name, hv attending night school at Lincoln
Memorial Church, corner 11th and R Streets N. W., Wash¬
ington. Her text hook being the old John Coinley speller.

Julia joined Ashbury Church in 1800. Two years later
she was converted to the Raptist faith through the influence
of her sister, Miranda, and joined Second Raptist Church in

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON.

(As sent to me, December 30, 1885.)

251

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

18G8. On April 18, 1871, she was married to Lewis Toliver
Ruffin, a deacon of that church. She left Hon. Charles Sum¬
mer’s where she was employed as maid to be married. Rev.
Sandy Alexander baptized her and married her. Till after
her marriage, she never had a doctor. Her health failed
her vear after vear.

Her suffering had become so acute, she thought she
heard mother say: “Go, and see if something can’t be done
for you.” Although she had been gone nearly ten years,
Julia went to Columbia Hospital. Staid three months. Was
so improved as to give encouragement, although Dr. Murphy
thought an operation would be dangerous. Home again, the
cares of housekeeping were too much for her. Since her
marriage she was taught dressmaking, having learned under
Mrs. Ellen White. She became quite a seamstress with a
large run of work.

Finally they both agreed to separate for the sake of her
health, lie loved her dearly until the day of his death, April
18, 191G, which was the doth anniversary of their marriage.
No children were born to them. Although Mr. Ruffin ob¬
tained a divorce in 1890, neither ever married again. So,
after sixteen years of hovering between life and death at
times, the doctors said she would recuperate in the country.
Then she made her former home in Hyattsville, her home.
During the years 1880-87-88-89-90, she supported herself by
working for Col. and Mrs. R. E. Bingham, doing general
house work, nursing for Dr. and Mrs. J. O. Adams, and Gen.
and Mrs. Anson G. McCook.

All the while Julia was studying to be a nurse. Her in¬
vitation and certificate show with what success she labored.

The Trustees and Faculty of the Washington Training
School for Nurses, invite you to be present at the Graduating
Exercises of the Tenth Class of Trained Nurses, to be held at
the Columbian University Building, corner 15th and II
Streets, on Thursday evening, June Id. 1892, at 8.30 o’clock.

All the while ili health threatened her. In 1895, her life
was despaired of. Being nursed by Mrs. Catherine Everett,
she improved sufficiently to go to Dr. Francis’ Sanitarium,
where an operation was performed by Dr. Stone. Dr. Wil-
liston administered the ether. After twenty-four years* suf¬
fering, she was now going to be well! Having suffered so

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•» • .

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

255

much herself, she determined to alleviate the suffering of
others. Hence she became a nurse. How well she performed
her duties, I shall ask several doctors whose, patients she
nursed, to testify. Also the following ladies:

Doctors J. O. Adams, S. S. Adams, Charles A. Wells,
Richardson, Cuthbert, H. D. Frye, and others.

Mrs. J. O. Adams, Mrs. A. G. McCook, Mrs. Hampton,
Mrs. Rexford Smith, Mrs. Mary Wells Fuller, Mrs. Yandoren,
Mrs. Joseph Aman, Mrs. Addie Smith Holden, Mrs. George
Evans and daughter, Mrs. Gaither, Mrs. F. S. Nichols, Mrs.
Clias. Earl, and Mrs. Emmons S. Smith, and many others.
They all say: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

As to our family, if there was any sewing to be done, or
any one sick, “send for Sister Julia.” While “Brother” Ruf¬
fin and “Sister” Julia kept house, none who went to visit
them came away hungry. Whenever Julia was too sick, I’ve
known Mr. Ruffin to buy t lie food, cook it, and serve it. He.
was more than fond of Robert and me. To me, it seemed
he loved me more than my father or brothers. He was a
good man. O, so proud of his oiTice in the church. They
both were very kind to Henry, and to every member of the
Plummer family. It could easily have been said that I had
two fathers, beside Dr. King. During these fifty years that
our mother has been gone, this sister-mother has more than
kept her promise to mother to “care for me always!” There
is no way that 1 can describe my appreciation for her loving
care and devotion during all these years. Although she is
twelve years our senior, she could even now do without me,
better than I could without her. She has always trusted me.
And that trust I have sacredly kept. Yet, not I, but the Spirit
of the Lord that is within me.

Thomas Moore said:

“Oh ! let me only breathe the air,

The blessed air that’s breathed by thee;

And whether on its wings it bear
Healing or death, ' tis sweet to me.”

I know of no one whose sterling Christian character ex¬
ceeds that of this beloved sister. “Her people shall be my
people. Her God (doing right), my God. Where she dies,
1 will die, ami there will 1 be buried.”

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256

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Nicholas Saunders Plummer

' This brother was sold in mother’s arms when he was six
wc^ks old. Thursday, November 25, 1851. the dav that father
and mother never forgot. When mother wont to Woodlawn,
Saunders was left with Misses Eliza and Priscilla at Mt.
Hebron. I love to call their names again because mother
often said she could not have stood the sorrow and loneliness
with father so far away, but for these two maiden sisters —
the daughters of Judge Dorsey.

From babyhood almost. Saunders was unusuallv fond
of horses. He carried a scar to bis grave, where he was
kicked in front of bis left ear bv a horse. Although so small
as to walk between the animal’s front and bind legs, his life
was spared.

He was an obedient boy If) both parents alike. He re¬
ceived his first wages in March, 1861, having been hired to
Mr. Clark Hyatt in February. He was then twelve years
old, and his pay was three dollars. But he was working with
mother. That was everything. Soon it was said Saunders
could manage any horse, no matter how full blooded. He
was next employed to be coachman for Mr. and Mrs. J. B.
Bryan, Marion Street. Hyattsville, is the drivewav down which
Saunders guided his beautiful bav horses. The First Na¬
tional Bank, Prince Georges Bank, all the churches and
schools with hundreds of homes are now built on what was
then the Brvan farm.

Within one month of his twcntv-second vear, September
4, 1873, he was married to Miss Frances Ellen Harris, at
Second Baptist Church, Washington, by Rev. Madison Gas¬
kins. Fifteen children were horn to them. To me it was a
beautiful sight to see father and mother and five hoys and
five girls seated at their table. But fate had a terrible blow
in store for us. Ifi less than two years we had lost four of
those children, Alfred. Nicholas, Charles, and Grace. We
are still asking “Whv? Whv?”

They named their first-born Sarah Miranda, horn
(Thursday, July 23, 1871.) She. as did all her sisters and
brothers, entered the church while very young. Sadie at¬
tended our county public schools, and graduated from the
Washington High School, June 21, 1803. She has been

/nn 9'4cm;rn burn

The triumph of the cross

257

church clerk more than thirty years. She was the idol of
her parents for her steadiness, lady-like bearing, and her
great influence for good over every sister and brother. In¬
stead of sending Saunders to school, 1863-1873, father bad to
take practically all bis wages to help secure our homestead.
His family grew so large there was little time for study after
his marriage. No wonder that be could do little more than
sign his name, or read a simple text. But referring to Sadie,
be would say: “I may not be able to count or understand that,
but I have some one home who can.” In June, 1905, she
married Mr. Frank Johnson. No children were born to them.
She was widowed one year ago, June 13, 1925. That large
Johnson family in which she married has always helped us
as a church. We love to think of Sadie as a deaconess, be¬
cause we know she will seek to know the truth, then decide
on its merit.

COL. BENJAMIN F. BINGHAM.—

The Friend of H u inanity .

258

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

She lias taught both public and private schools. She is
still teaching. Her word is her bond. She is our Naomi.

Catherine Rebecca was born February 25, 187b. She
was a great home body. She was named for her grand¬
mother, Catherine Harris, and for her mother's sister, Re¬
becca. She grew to he very tall and slender. She loved to
go to school, but did not finish because she was not well
and vigorous. She early learned to sew, and became expert
at dressmaking. Owing to the death of their children, the
parents became despondent, especially her father. She was
their mainstay and comforter. She was superintendent of
our Sunday School. In June, 1910, she was married to
Frederick J. Oscar of Kenilworth, I). C. Three children were
born — Frederick J. Jr., Gloria, and Jewel. In April," 1910,
she was widowed. Rut she is fighting bravely on, sending
her children to school, providing for them physically and
religiously, her needle being her principal support. My
prayer is: Katie, that each child shall he a jewel to you. not
only in name but in deed and in truth, as a recompense for
your faithfulness to your parents during their great sorrow.
I know you have their blessing. You are a defender of our
family.

Ida Saunders Plummer-Johnson-Rurkc

llieir third daughter was a twin. So ill was the mother
that the little boy, the larger and livelier of the two was lost
in the effort to save the mother, while the little girl so very
small and lifeless was laid aside. It was her Auntie Miranda
who discovered that she was alive, and thus saved her life.
This happened November 2b, 1877.

Ida went to Rladensburg public school, also attended
M Street High School.

She is never so happy as when doing something for
some one else. As an agent she did manv acts of kindness
for the sick and the needy. I am afraid we all impose upon
ier. If one reaps what he sows, she cannot miss her reward.

Pebruai y, 190%), she was married to Paul Jeremiah John¬
son, the brother of the late Frank Johnson. Five children
were born to them, of whom Dorothy Plummer and Paul
Jeremiah, Jr., survive. Their father died March, 1910.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

259

Ten years later. November 17, 1920, she was married to
William E. Rnrke, a deacon and trustee of St. Paul’s Baptist
Church. RIadensburg. For twentv-one years she was an agent
for the National Benefit Association of Washington. So faith¬
ful did she perform her duties that Mr. Rutherford did not
hesitate to employ her daughter, son and sister. But her
monument will ever be ihe faithful. loving care that she is
taking of her mother. She has been assistant organist, and
organist for the church, Sunday School, and endeavor for
years. She is known and loved bv everybody.

Their Henry Vinton died in 1885, nearly four years old.
Alfred was 22 vears old when he passed a wav in 1901. Next

was Nicholas Saunders,

L .. il

ged 17 vears. Then Charles

Ellsworth, in his 19th year. Grace Frances, aged 1-1 years,
was the last of that sorrow.

Robert Francis, horn Sepiember, 1881, married Miss
Florence Glascoo in January. 1908. Three children were
horn to them — F ay Frances, Florence, and Robert F., Jr.

He early showed a taste for music. So diligently did he
study that he is now k adi r of Quinch Orchard Rand, himself
being eornelist. lie has been employed at the Government
Printing Office for years, while ! i is wife is at the Bureau
of Engraving and Priming.

Their eldest. Fay Frances, fifteen years, graduated from
Dunbar High School June 21. 1020, and is very proficient in
music, in which she plans to perfect herself. Both parents
are loyal to their church.

Rudolph Lincoln, born May 2 . 1890, was married to
Miss Minnie Daily, a daughter of Rev. John II. Dailey, Janu¬
ary, 1908. Three children were born to them — Elaine, Fran¬
ces, and Justin, their father being employed in the Govern¬
ment. He is a deacon in his parents' church, beloved by all.

Marie Plum mer-Da vis

5 on know how parents feel toward their youngest child,
“that's my baby,'' they say, although the “baby” may he fifty
vears old. Well. Marie is the baby, horn January, 1895. She
went to Bladcnsburg public school, then tinished at Arm¬
strong Manuel Training, Washington, D. C.

sa / .*iUifiiinT bum;!/. ^uonrlg

200

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Before joining tliat great body of workers, known as
agents and clerks for the “National Benefit, ' she was a Mary¬
land teacher. She married .). Ilayden Davis. Two children
were born to them— Saunders Plummer Davis and Cleopatra
Davis.

In 1920, the court restored her maiden name. Thus she
struggles bravely on alone with her children. She is now a
teacher in the Sunday School.

Saunders and Fannie Plummer were baptized in March,
1871, before a child was born to them. Because they early
sought God’s favor. He poured out a special blessing upon
them and their family. They were able to so influence every
child that, like them, their chief delight is in the law of the
Lord, in which they meditate dav and night. Everv child
sought the Savior and sought Him earlv. They were earlv
taught that a pure heart (right motive), leads to an unde-
filed soul, and that a good name is rather to be chosen than
great riches. God and 1 1 is Church first, was their motto.

When H. V. Plummer left for the west on August b,
1881, Rev. F. G. Hall , as minister and teacher, was naturally
looked upon as his successor, but having poor health. Brother
Saunders had to take the lead under his guidance. Whether
we went north, south, east, or west, from that day to the
day of his death, we had no fears for the Church or Union,
knowing ‘‘Brother Saunders is there.” He was a deacon for
inanv years.

Knowing that the death of his children had struck him
such a cruel blow, we could not see that subtle disease was
creeping upon him.

On July 28, 1911, just after 1 p. m.. he went Home to
be forever with his Lord. As he was always home, scarcely
if ever away over night, from 1851 to 191 L it is hard to de¬
scribe how we miss him.

For there were very few prayer meetings ever missed by
this deacon and his children, all of them, not one child.

Mho said Deacon Nicholas Saunders Plummer's name
is seldom if ever called, although he was faithful and upright.

Being denied an education, he appreciated it all the
more in his children. Every time our church clerk performs

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

261

her duties after an exceptional manner as she has all these
years, he speaks. For she is his first-born, Sarah Miranda
Plummer-Johnson.

Every time Mrs. Katie Rebecca P.-Oscar, a widow, cares
for her family as she is doing, he speaks. He speaks when
Mrs. Ida Saunders P.-Johnson-Burke shows such patience and
perseverance in the rearing and schooling her children and
the care of her mother. For ten vears more or less did Ida
and her children live with her mother, and it would be hard
to tell that the husband and father had passed away, so well
kept and beautiful was their home. This, too, speaks for
him. Thus he speaks through the organist, the president of
the Church Aid, and what-so-ever her hands find to do.

MARY ALDEN.
(Aged 83 year9.)

262

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

concert, they arc 1 1 is
Miss Fay Plummer,
great pianist,
i Is seat and counsels

Every time Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Plummer (his son),
come to our services, or give a band
representatives. I f is granddaughter,
though very young, is destined to he a

Deacon Rudolph Plummer fills 1
with the brethren as often as possible, his father speaking
through him to the deacons still.

Mrs. Marie Plummer-Davis is speaking for her father
as a member of the choir, and a teacher in the Sunday School,
to say nothing of her daily work at th^ National Benefit — -
striving to rear her two little children as her parents reared
her, to love and serve the Lord.

Brother Saunders was faithful, sincere, grateful, upright,
being morally good, lie loathed falsehood and hatred as being
the most immoral of all immoralities. Such a character will
continue to speak' for itself.

Those of his children that he “loved and lost a while,”
had spoken for him in heaven before his arrival.

This story of John Maynard describes Saunders — at
home, at work, and at church, belter than any I know, lie
staid at the helm, and died there.

JOHN MAYNARD

John Maynard was pilot of the steamer Ocean Queen
which plied on Lake Erie between Buffalo and Detroit. He
was well known as an honest, intelligent man; and now the
time came when he was to prove himself as true a hero as
ever lived.

One bright midsummer day, as the Ocean Queen was
steaming toward BuHalo, smoke was seen ascending from
below. I he captain at once directed the mate. Simpson, to
go down and see what caused the smoko. Presently the
officer returned, his face pale as ashes, and whispered, “Cap¬
tain, the ship is on fire!”

T lie terrible tidings cfiiFklv spread among the passengers,
of whom there were mere than a hundred. ‘“The ship is on
fire!” they uttered with blanched lies. ‘The ship is on lire!”

The captain was a cool, self-possessed man. Having
called up all hands, lie issued ouick, sharp orders. Buckets
of water were dashed upon the fire; hut as the steamer carried
a large quantity of rosin and tar, the flames spread so quickly
that all effort to extinguish them was vain. To add to the

.bovjf 1070

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

263

horror of the situation, the lake steamers at that time seldom
carried boats. The Ocean Queen had none.

The passengers rushed to the pilot, and anxiously asked:
“JIow far are we from Buffalo,’’

“Seven miles.”

“How long before we can reach it,”

“Three quarters of an hour, at our present rate of speed.”

“Is there any danger?”

“Danger here. See the smoke bursting out! Go for¬
ward, if you would save your lives!”

Passengers and crew, men, women, and children crowded
the forward part of the ship. John Maynard stood at the
wheel.

The flames hurst forth in a sheet of fire; clouds of smoke
arose.

Jlic captain shouted through his trumpet: “John May-
nard !”

“Ay, ay, sir!”

“Are you at the helm?”

“Ay, ay, sir!”

“How does she head?”

“Southeast by east, sir!”

“Head her southeast, and run her on shore!”

Nearer, and nearer vet she apnroached t he shore. Again
the contain cried out: “John Mavnard!”

The response came feebly: “Ay, ay, sir!”

“Can von hoM ont fivo minutes longer, John?”

“By God’s help I will!”

The old man’s hair was scorched from the scalp; one
hand disalded. his knee unon the stanchion, and his teeth
set. with his other hand upon the wheel, he stood firm as a
rock.

He beached fhe shin: everv man, woman, and child was
saved as John Mpvn.ard dropped, and his spirit took flight
to its God. — John R. Gough.

Sounder’s wife, who has been in failing health for the past
five venrs or more, is just waiting. She will he seventy-three
vears oM Jnlv 5. 1026. She has been a great wife and mother.
To her husband’s people she has been a real sister.

Many of my readers must know of her good brothers,
Mr. Samuel Ellsworth Harris of Washington, and Mr. James
Harris of Rhode Island.

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264

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Margaret Jane Plummer-Brown

I had two sisters — mothers. “Sister Magg,” or “Smagg,”
as “Little Brother’’ and I affectionately called her, was one
of them.

Hers was a peculiar kind of love. She loved like the
genuine mother that she proved to be. She was the second
child horn on Meridian Hill, Washington, D. C., where dear
old Way land once stood. She was “baby” six years before
we were born. It is said that all spoiled her. This I do know.
All loved her. She was christened by Bishop Way man, at
Union Bethel (now Metropolitan, M Street between 15th and
16th Streets N. W.), as was Saunders. When freedom was
declared, she was not nine vears old until October 17th fol-
lowing. While father and mother were straining every nerve
to bring Sister Miranda home (1866), and to pay for our ten

ALDEN-TINKER HOME, HYATTSVILLE. MD.

Descendant of John Alden of “The Mayflower."’

(Place of my first inspiration.)

James Wallace, a boy from Orphans’ Home, holding the horse.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

265

acres of ground (1808), Robert and I and Tom had to be left
largely to Magg’s care during the day. Mother could have
hired no nurse, nor detective, who would have guarded and
protected us as Maggie did. She would have faced an army
at the risk of her own life, for our sakes. She died possessed
of that love. When we lost mother, January, 1870, Maggie
was all the housekeeper father had. How we clung to her!

From the time she entered the church (1878), until the
end, the church, in all departments, was her chief delight,
as many now living can testify.

In 1880, she was married to John Preston Brown. He
was the son of Henry and Mary Brown of our mother’s ac¬
quaintance at “Three Sisters.” In the six years they were
married, eight children were horn to them. At t he second
birth triplets were horn (1882), all girls, all lived three days.
One lived nearly a week.

Their first horn was Mabel Vaughn, April 21, 1881. She
grew to he a very lovable character. She graduated from
Wayland Seminary in May, 1809. She possessed a deep and
rich contralto voice. As a baby she used to sing “Sweet
violets, sweeter than all the roses.” She grew tall and in¬
teresting, being a favorite, especially at school.

Then the inevitable happened. On October 15, 1900,
just fifteen months after graduation, she exclaimed: “O how
beautiful it is over there!” Tims siie left us in her 20lh year.
We still grieve after her, as the sweetest, fairest, and best.

Irene Emily was horn June 21, 1888. at the homestead.
We remember her babyhood as dimples, always plump and
good natured. She is an expert in the culinary art.

In October, 1900. she was married to Walter R. Davis.
Six children have been horn to them. She shows her love
and appreciation for those who eared for her by her manv
acts of kindness. Indeed, her mother passed away in her
house. Their children are Anita (step-daughter to Irene).
Elsie, Emily (all llircc now married), Walter R. Jr., Kenneth,
Margaret, and Reginald. May they ever be as loving and
obedient as their parents. Lord, bless their little tloek.

Elizabeth May, horn at the homestead, July I, 1881, was
named by Mrs. Lizzie Lee Rowles. the sister of our great
frifind and brother, Mr. William O. l.ee. of Bladensburg.
Sirs. Bowles was a great friend of “Bessie's” mother. As a

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206

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

child no one could he more happy than she, if her mother
were near. Rut please don’t separate her from her mother,
and expect any happiness. She wouldn’t allow her father to
carry her to or from church, even if asleep.

Like her cousin (Mrs. Katie Oscar), Bessie early showed
a desire to sew, to cut, to make, to do. Today, 1 think she
would tackle anything pertaining to needle-craft.

In 1900, she married William Luke Beaman, the son of
our beloved brother and friend. Mills Beaman, who is much
respected and beloved by all. His only faults arc that he is
faithful, honest, and industrious. Against these there is no
law. His son, William, as do all his children, seems to fol¬
low in his father’s footsteps. It is one of our chief pleasures
to visit our niece in their beautiful home in Takoma. Park,
D. C.

She is faithful to church and Sunday School, where she
is the superintendent. I know she is beloved by her neigh¬
bors in Takoma just as she is by her relatives and friends
here. “For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but
Truth and Righteousness, and Joy in the Holy Ghost.

Nellie Plummer Brown-Moss

The last children born to Preston and Maggie Brown
were a boy and girl, December 0. 18S6, here at the homestead.
In January, 1887. the boy, John Preston. Jr., died of measles.
From the time she was two weeks old, she and 1 became dear
to each other. If it were possible. I’d say I loved her dearer
than her mother did. 1 sent her to school, and she was with
me, and about me all the time, whenever possible. At the
age of twelve ill health set in. Many were our cares and
anxieties for her health and very life. Every friend, or ac¬
quaintance, or relative sympathized with me, on account of
the bond of love between us. Her great determination to
finish high school, it seemed was what kept her alive. In
her last year. I think, she had to say “Good-bye, little desk
at school.” Later she finished millinery at Armstrong under
I)r. Bruce Evans.

Every teacher loved her, and inquire for her till today.
Miss Park. Miss Riggs, Mrs. Cooper, Miss Jennie M. Spears,
and others, still remember her.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

207

On July 15, 1008, she was married here, where she was
horn, hv that never-to-be-forgotten minister. Rev. Wm. J.
Howard, to Clarence Bumbry Moss. Two children were
horn to them — Louise Plummer, April 80, 1000, and Harri-
ette Elizabeth, July 20. 1000. As I write now, T can't believe
they are both now in Dunbar High School. They spent one
vear, 1021-1025 at Hartshorn Memorial College, Richmond,
Ya.

Their father is a deacon of our church, and was presi¬
dent of The Union. He works for the R. R. Co. Their
mother has worked for nearly ten years at the Bureau of
Engraving.

* \ ■

Mav God bless them and may nothing ever separate them
from His glory.

But all the life of Preston and Maggie Brown was not
roses. Shadows and sorrows early crept across their sky.
The vear 1887 was noted for an epidemic of typhoid fever.
On July 1, 1887. Maggie took her five children to Bladcns-
burg to the picnic in Spa Woods. Susan Mathews carried
the little boy while the mother carried the little girl. Mabel,
7, Renie, 1. and Bessie. 8. trudged along. Preston having
worked a half day. called for them in the P. M. Before they
started for Melrose, having moved from our house. Renie
and Bessie seemed to he gelling sick. Xo one then suspected
what awaited us. From July 1 to August 11 it did not rain.
The heat was intense. Many springs, wells, and streams
went dry. The two children were so critically ill, that each
day seemed their last. By the middle of July. Preston began
complaining. By August 1. he was a sick man. As soon as
he became id. T took all the children home, here, with me.
Dear little Mabel went through the heat every dav to bring
milk to the babies. On August 9, word came by Brother
Saunders that there was no hone. That I must lake the
children down at once. At 11.20 A. M.. Dr. Chas. A. Wells
called. He said: “Preston. Preston, didn't you say you
wanted to see Nellie?" (Calling as loud as he could). Pres¬
ton answered: “Yes, sir!" 1 stepped to the bedside. With his
last dying breath he said: “Your kindness —will never be —
forgotten!" Before 1 could reply, he had breathed his last.
I brought the children back home with me; also their mother.

"! iMiojj iol

• i ■

268

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

They lived with me until they married. Just before 3 P. M.,
on the 11th of August, The Union brought his body here,
where the funeral was held. We buried him in our private
lot. So wasted was Bessie (3 years old), that I had to carry
her on a pillow to the burial spot. Renie was nearly as bad
off. After a week, Maggie was taken. For weeks she hov¬
ered between life and death. I went to Washington to get
a nurse, if possible, and to bring a piece of meat for beef tea.
From sheer exhaustion, I collapsed, and did not get back
home for six weeks. When I did, I scarcely knew my sister,
who couldn’t take a step. The babies were sitting on the
floor, O so changed. I didn’t know the little girl, supposing
her to be the neighbor’s child that was washing. Dr. Wells
told me not to weep, it was cooler now, and that he expected
all to recover. When I saw the pitiable condition of my sis-

MISS LEWIS,— a T etcher.
( I he bruce School Beauty.)

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

269

ter and her five children, I was so aroused that I forgot how
weak and sick I was. 1 saw that God had called me to bear
that cross of being “father” to those helpless children. From
that day until they were married, I did all I could for them.
I never upheld them in the wrong, nor was there ever a wrong
example set in this home. All the pay I ask is their love and
respect.

In January, 1888, the twin hoy died. I think my sister
grieved more for that child than all else.

During the summer, 1888, our new house, six rooms and
cellar, was built by Mr. J. R. Ruffin, under Prof. George Wil¬
liam Cook of Howard University. Thus financial burdens in¬
creased, but health slowlv returned. During the struggle, the
children's grandmother and aunt. Mrs. Mary frown, and her
daughter. Mrs. Nellie Rrown-Redd, never ceased to help their
son and brother’s children. So did Misses Eliza and Jane
Heacock, Miss Storum, Miss Rartlett, Mrs. George Evans, a
white neighbor, risked her health, and that of a large family
of children to come to our relief. She brought her baby,
and placing it in the middle of the kitchen table, would give
Maggie her medicine, feed the babies, otherwise administer
and leave. We'll never forget Mrs. Evans!

As if we didn't have children enough to care for, we took
two children (12 years old), from Orphans’ Home. These we
cared for till they were eighteen years old. Today they are
honored citizens of North Brentwood, Md., owning their
homes. I refer to Mr. James Wallace, his good wife and
eight children, and a grandchild. The other is Mr. Chas.
Weedon, who has two children. Both boys became members
of our church soon after coming to our home.

V »

Sweet is the promise: “I will not forget thee.” Nothing
can molest or turn my soul away; E'en though the night he
dark within the vallev. Just bevond is shining one eternal
day.”

That the Lord did not forget us was proven in the many
kindnesses ot Mrs. George Evans. They still live in Wash¬
ington. Long may they live and prosper!

Then there had come to llvattsville a Miss Addie Bovce,

• »

for whom mv sister had done dav’s work. Miss Bovce and
• * *

her mother were the “Good Samaritan" to us for more than

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«.i i i.X i)ooiJ'

270

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

seven years. More sympathetic persons never lived. My
sister’s cow, on which she depended for milk for the children,
died about six months after her husband. Miss Boyce solic¬
ited from others and gave herself enough to buy another cow.
We shall not soon forget Miss Addie Boyce, and her ‘’good¬

will.

No one can run into Melrose, ilvattsville, without ad¬
miring a beautiful building and spacious grounds. It was
built by the Lcwin family for a young ladies boarding school.

The Lewins were an aristocratic family, consisting of
the Misses Nellie, Annie, Rachel, and Saltie Lcwin, and one
brother, Mr. William Lcwin, a noted lawyer. They were the
son and daughters of an Episcopal minister or rector. They
were all excellent people. Miss Annie, who later married
Mr. J. B. Burnside, a widower with live children, was a saint
if there ever was one on the earth. 1 happen to know every
one of those children loved ner as they would have their own
mother. One son, J. B. Jr., was born of the second marriage.
Although lie was so precious to her, Mrs. Burnside seemed to
have given him to the Lord, like “Hannah of old.”

My sister, Maggie, and her husband rented a small house
near the Melrose institute, and moved about the iirst of
March, 1887. Their twins were then three months old. As
I’ve stated, about July 1, they were stricken with typhoid
fever.

The Misses Lewin sent many a meal from the Institute
to that stricken home. Within a week of the husband’s
death, they sent meals all prepared twice daily.

On August 10, 1887, the day before the funeral, they sent
mourning tor the four of us sisters to wear — veils, skirts, and
waists. We wore them, and returned them. (The Lewin
sisters were in mourning for one of their parents.)

After Mr. Burnside died, Mrs. Burnside never changed
her mourning, until Tluisday, April f>, 1028, when Anne Wood
Lewin-Burnside “Crossed the Bar.” That was how she
loved. All have passed now except the brother, Lawyer
Lewin, and Miss Sa llie Lewin.

Col. B. F. Bingham selected Lawyer Lewin as a legal
advisor for our familv to succeed himself.

h .-wol

tjyv/uJ /lotlloni 9ttt k&w* won b ‘jattui o/sul UA

THE TRIUMPH OF TIIE CROSS

271

Out of grateful hearts we pray that each one of that great
family shall hear the King say: “Come ye blessed of my
Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world. Verily I say unto you. Inasmuch
as ye have done it unto one of the least of these mv brethren,
ve have done it unto me.”

So things went for six years. I went to school March 17,

1893, wlvcn I returned my sister had taken the children and

gone to Washington, where she married John Garner. It

has taken until now for me to gel over the shock, surprise,

and loss of companionship of my sister that I loved dearer

than mv life!

Two children were born to them, Harry and Helen. In
1890, she was divorced from Garner. Rut she held on tena¬
ciously to the children, worked day and night for them until
1916, when her health began to fail. So, for seven years, her
daughters did every thing in their power for her comfort.
Little Helen, who is a line young woman, was passionately
fond of her mother. Too much could not be said of her
sons-in-law, Messrs. William Hcaman, Walter R. Davis, and
Clarence R. Moss, as to their loving care of her. On De¬
cember 4, 1923, 4.30 P. M., her voice was stilled. Needless
to sav, her funeral was held in the old church where she had
made so many sacrifices, even to being sexton. Good-bye,
till resurrection morning, when the just shall be made per¬
fect.

Emma Peterson, our Foster Sister

In 1869, Miss Emma Peterson came into our lives, by our
Miranda working with her sister, Rertie, in Washington city.

Ever seeking to win souls for the Lord Jesus, Sister Mi¬
randa persuaded Rertie to let her younger sister come to
Ilyattsville, under the care of our mother. Thus began a
real sister friendship that never changed until that day in
July, 1912, when she went to be forever with the Lord, whom

she had loved so faithfully since 1871, fortv-one years.

* * •>

She and I were baptized May 7, 1871, I think my own
sisters never loved me more than she. She was probably
born in 187)1, as was our sister, Maggie. Rcing about the

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272

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Our foster sister became a superior cook. As she had to
work in Washington, where she could get good wages,>she
withdrew from our church and The Union in 1881, placing
her membership in 19th Street Baptist and The Household of
Ruth, respectively.

For years, she was employed by Senator and Mrs. Justfn
Morrill. Miss Swann, Mrs. Morrill’s sister, thought they
could not manage without “Emma,” as did Mrs. John R.
McLean, of Friendship, D. C., and Mr. and Mrs. Rodman
Wanamaker, of Philadelphia.

The only person our father ever thought could take
mother’s place was this “Sister Emm,” as we called her.
Somehow she did not reciprocate, and for (30) thirty long
years he lacked a wife’s companionship.

It would be impossible, here, to tell the good that Emma
Peterson did in helping all who were in need. “In as much,”
etc., will surely be her crown. She was a happy, joyous
Christian. Had sister Miranda had no other child in the
gospel, except her, her labors were not in vain.

DR. ROBERT FRANCIS PLUMMER. MISS NELLIE ARNOLD PLUMMER

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

273

Dedicated to Miss Nellie A. Plummer

Mourn not the Plummers, they have done their work
well. These lines are in memory of the sad incident of four
deaths which occurred in the Plummer family, following
one after another in rapid succession, as follows: October
11, 1901, Brother Saunders lost his oldest son, aged 22 years;
he lost his third son January 11, 1905, aged 17 years; Febru¬
ary 10, 1905, they lost a brother, Henry Vinton, he died in
Kansas Citv, aged 00 vears; Ids remains were brought on and
placed beside his sainted mother. March 4. they lost their
oldest sister, Mrs. Miranda Clarke, aged 63 years.

Mourn not the Plummers, they have done their work well.
Consult old church record, their history 'twill tell;

How they went through as Christians by day and by night —
They walked through temptation to the city of light.

Mourn not these friends who are now midst the bowers
Where bloom is eternal with undying flowers;

They are safe in those mansions of rest in the sky
Mixed in that joy which never can die.

Don’t call them back to the city of pain —

To go through a life of suffering again;

Rut, leave them in glory with our Lord and His Son —
Through out of His Kingdom His will’s only done.

Yes. we love these our kinsmen, we loved them most dear.
At times we imagine their spirits are near;

Do tlicv hover around us to accompany us home?

Yes, The Lord will protect us, for we are His own.

Each day in its travels we are nearing our rest.

The Lord calls His children when ever it’s best;

Re on the watch tower to answer His call —

We can not conjecture just where we may fall,

):!! Ir1 r i won 9ir> otiv/ *bno il vo/ll Jon muoM
V'ifa 9ril ni test l< «noian0m mjmiiIJ ni oli;« om ^oiIT

.onob y m ! ? Hiv' rnobgnl/i aiU lo Jijo liguoifiT

»v ' . ; r)7/ of ftaJnu/ o M no ' fl

274

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Mourn not the righteous who's gone from our shore,

They are safe in God's Kingdom to come out no more;

They have fulfilled their mission — they walked in the light.
Now reside in a city of perfect delight.

Forsaking the old building now gone to decay.
Notwithstanding so careful you laid it away;

While their souls are with Jesus who pardoned their sins—
They have entered that city where all may go in.

Mourn not relations who’ve gone on before,

It makes us fell sad — we will see them no more;

Rut remember we've been dying since the day we were born —
Each hour of each day some dear one is gone.

Can we name all our people whose gone from this life?

As brothers, as sisters, as husbands and wife?

Uncles, aunts, cousins, with intimate friends —

If you’ll begin now to count them, O, where will you end?

Turn where you will, “O, mv mother's dead;”

“In yonder’s cold grave my sister is laid.”

Look, Comes a new luneral — some dear loving son.

We will say as of others, “The Lord’s will be done.”

Open that letter, a dear friend is gone,

Open another a new soul is born;

Kindred, relation, old acquaintance and new —
Neighboi s, church members, is gone from that pew.

Mourn not these pilgrims who have kept the straight way,
Whose journey has ended in a triumphant dav;

Who hath passed through the gates of that city above,
And now realize the power and force of God’s Jove.

. ... " /• ! » , iii> »

>ilt Iqo^l ovml oil’// anth&liq oanilj Joo /nuoM

diOJi-i; iiliidiilui illiv/ .^ui^jio*) ^hiuu ^jhulJ

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

275

Mourn not the travelers, they have gone through the sky —
Traveled through earth to God’s Kingdom on high;

And bathed in that fountain which never runs dry —

When our lives here are ended we’ll meet bv and bv.

Be free from all sorrows, temptation and grief —

Away in the kingdom we there find relief;

Join with our kinsmen who died years ago —

There we’ll rejoice and praise ever more.

Mourn not the conquerors whose victories are won,

Whose warfares are ended, whose conflicts arc done;
Through grace they have conquored, and have won the great
prize —

Escaped from destruction — and gone through the sk^es.

... 16

Mourn not God’s soldiers who hath fought the good fight,
They battled against darkness, and contended for right;
New decked in bright garmenis which will not decay.

Where a million of years wiii seem as one day.

Mourn not the Plummers, God calls them to rest.
We bow to 1 1 is Sceptre lie* knows what is best;
Where a God-serving people, faithful in prayer.
Yes, they are in glory, 1 feel they are there.

May the rest of that family live nearer to God,

So manage to be faithful and receive that reward;

And let love with communion run through the whole llock —
With their faith in Christ Jesus as firm as the rock.

This memorial verse was written for and read at the
memroial service held in honor of the deceased, Sunday,
June 18, 1905, First Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md., by
SOLOMON G. BROWN.

to s bol > »'►) loo k>nts twnxirh |Hiiirc*\S InlJlisd voiil
.yuwt Ion liiv/ fb’ul/f Hlrto/inftjj lit^hd ni bo5l*Jol) v/o/l

.oiiiii *>'jii voiii tool 1 vyioi; ni 0*1 r» ^oill ,*oY

bo.') <>l aio*i i son iv i l vlisniit listfl In oill vkM
;b*BV/o*» lull nr\ rrn linn I u'if i ) iijl od oJ o^nrmm oai

! M Wilquil Jz~i I .V>\ onul

276

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Richmond, Va.
October 12, 1916,

My dear Friend:

Yours of yesterday came this morning, and I must assure
you that my heart will be with you the 22nd, but the house
it inhabits must be here.

Let me tell you a little about how I fell toward your
church and all its members. I knew the old meeting house,
where you have your new one now, before there was a Baptist
known in the town. For months 1 used to worship with half
a handful of Presbyterian brothers and sisters in that house.
This was when I had charge of the English department of
the Agricultural College.

How well I remember the Calvert fa mil}' — father, mother,
sister, and four brothers, who were in my classes at the
College. For several years I knew little of the town, but in
1867 1 began to gather up the threads that tied me to Bladens-
burg. Since that time I have known the Plummers, the
Moss family, and that good man. Brother Hall, Brother Wig-
ginton, whose death seemed to come all too soon. There
were other friends whom I knew as helping to give character
to the Baptist Church. The Redd family and others.

If you were to ask me to give you the names of those
who have left the most abiding impression upon me, I should
name your mother, Emily Plummer, and your sister, Mi¬
randa. Your mother was a God-made woma.n I can never
forget the chapters she gave me of her life, as a slave. It
seems only yesterday, that we talked together, while the
great, big tears coursed down her tired cheeks. After a long
talk she fixed her impressive eyes upon me, and said: “I
can’t tell vou anv more about it. for it tears mv heart so.”
Then it seemed to me that I could almost hear her heart’s
strings break, as she pressed both hands upon her heart
that seemed submerged in sad memories.

If extr ernes follow each other, and they often do, what
joys have filled your dear mother’s soul, as she has been
dwelling where not a wave of trouble rolls across her peaceful
breast.

il oJ 9fn boil tcdl gbctnrii orli qn lodhift oi ruj^od I T08t
-Si' loriloitf JLilT nodbrrt. ,m;rn boo»j Imii bna tvfirrml ggoM

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.avfiig £ g£ ,?Yil t n 1o orn o*/na orlg gislqnrfo or! I Jo^iol
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/u 110II0 vod f I win .twIJo f(j£0 woilol gofnriJ/o II

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

277

Your mother was made of the material to he worked
into a strong church. She knew the sure foundations upon
which to build an abiding hope. I feel sure that her inllu-
ence has been felt in all the joys and sorrows of the church.
I see her, even now, looking down from the heights upon the
church and rejoicing in all the memories of the good and
true that have marked your progress. I kept saying to my¬
self, after meeting her: “Let me help to make some return
to Mrs. Plummer for her long, weary years of care, sorrow,
and suffering.” And I had an opportunity to aid more of her
family than any other in all the Southland.

You remember that Mrs. King and I had your sister, Mi¬
randa to care for us, month after month, and the stories she
used to tell 11s of her separation from home — of what she en¬
dured, and of how tier brother found her, would fill a book.
She seemed to have learned in her suffering to walk and talk
with God, and so many of the darkest pictures in her life
were translated into a sad light.

But I must not keep you so long, though I do wish to
refer to a baptism I enjoyed with the church down by the
riverside. There were a good number (10) of converts.
Brother Hall was then pastor. Your sister, Miranda, had been
the leading spirit in planning and preparing for the service.
Even now, I can see her directing — cheering — helping the con¬
verts. And can’t you still hear her sweet voice in those old
hymns she sang so well? 1 wonder how many present that
day still remain? Numbers and numbers, 1 can count up,
who have gone where “the weary are at rest.”

As a church, you have had varied experiences, but what
victories you have won.

If I could have come to you, I should have talked to
you from Ps. 77:20 — “Thou leddest thy people like a flock.”

No church can prosper that is not divinely led. And
can’t you see how the Divine has ied you as a church?

Sometimes the Shepherd has allowed von to feel the cold,
the storm, perhaps the absence of a shelter, hut this experi¬
ence has served its purpose, in helping you to have a keener
appreciation of a warm shelter and the good care of a faithful
Shepherd. And with what gracious care and helpfulness you
have been led! Even in the darkest hours you have found
comfort and joy in the unseen presence.

•V ii-tt

,qu Inu od riftvi fum J'/iodinu’/S Vniiunoi ilila <fib

| fid* Jud ,<JOonoiTj(f/.^ toitta*/ bad ovrnf i nr/ jh-wth a &A

! foot no od wad

278

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Never a moment, when the Shepherd s voice has not
sounded out to you: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and
are heavy laden, and I will

Sometimes you have been in the deep, down valley, hut
it was that way that loving care was to lead you to the larger,
richer joys, and to the heights from which you have caught
the broader and more glorious visions.

I am sure you will remember, in these anniversary days,
all the way the Shepherd has led you, and that Ilis purpose
has always been good, wise, and kind.

I wish I could reach out to you all my hand of Christian
fellowship, hut not now. Won’t you hear to the members
of the church my congratulations and sympathy, while I ex¬
press the hope that:

“If on a quiet sea

Toward heaven you calmly sail,

With grateful heart you may
Own the favoring gale.

But should the surges rise
And rest delay to come,

Then with grateful hearts,

Learn trustingly to live by faith alone.”

Excuse this long talk, and the haste seen in writing.

Yours truly,

G. M. P. King.

P. S. — If I write on this bluish paper you will not think
I am blue at all, for I am living in the sunshine of Him,
who said of himself: “I am the light.” My cold has troubled
me rather seriously, hut it has made me more careful of the
number of my words, and this perhaps is a good thing.
Your letter enclosed with this, was written in my lecture
room between times, and in looking it over. I wish I had
taken more time, but it was a sort of heart to heart talk.
How much of your life as a family I remember, hut some¬
how I want to put a halo on your mother's and Miranda’s
head! Dear Souls! how much they suffered, hut now we can
say what delectation is theirs!

I am busy with classes and looking after individual stu¬
dents. I have two brothers of dear McQuiun's family, two
brothers of the Henrv familv, and three of Thomas Wright’s
sons. I “sort of feel” as if these brothers are my grand chil¬
dren, for were not their fathers my sons?

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, ,i , •• i lit •>(!) inn r :V> -

I • /S“' " £

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

279

I have my good Martha to take care of me, she lias been
with me three years and knows exactly how to manage me.
Isn’t she fortunate to learn this?

You do not know how I mourn over dear Ernest’s going
from us. I can hardly bear to think of Washington, and
how can I ever be happy again in the city.

What a grand time you are having! Again I say: go-on-
still-on-up-still up!

Write me more about your exercises, for I am listening
and seeing you in these anniversary days.

G. M. P. King.

ST. PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH.

Bladensburg, Maryland.

Old Church — Built in 1718.

280

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Worcester Academy Bulletin. June, 1914

John Harvey Wigginton, one of the three graduates of the
class who no longer answers to its roll-call, but who is remem¬
bered so well and so affectionately bv his associates, entered
the Academy at the beginning of the junior year, coming
from Bladenshurg, Md., where he was born Dec. 8, 18(54. Al¬
ready a man in years, he combined with unfailing dignity and
courtesy a cheerfulness and amiability that made him, though
of another race, a favorite of all. Every issue of The Acade¬
my is full of his name. The issue of October, 1888, contains
a contribution by him on “The Permanence of Literary Fame,”
full of line appreciation and sentiment. He became a moni¬
tor, played second base on the nine where he had a high bat¬
ting average, was somewhat of a luirler, and a leader in Le¬
go’s debates and public exercises. He was graduated with
oration rank.

He entered Yale, and was graduated in 1893. Then fol¬
lowed two years at the Yale Law School, rewarded with the
degree of Bachelor of Laws. He was admitted to the bar in
Maryland, and entered upon the practice of his profession at
Bladenshurg, where lie remained until 1897. He then prac¬
ticed for a year in Chicago, after which he was called to the
teaching stall* of Selma University, an institution devoted to
the education of his race, at Selma, Ala. He was elected dean
of that institution in May, 1905, and continued in that capacity
until the early part of 1909, when failing health compelled him
to abandon his work.

On Sept. 20, 1906, he married Miss Mahalatli Frances
Jackson, a graduate ot Way land Seminary of Washington,
D. C., and shortly afterward bought a house at Brentwood,
Md., thus realizing a long cherished hope of establishing a
home lor his mother, to whom he was devoted, lie returned
to this home when his health failed, and died there. May 21,
1909. The Yale Alumni Weekly says: “His associates at
Selma University and elsewhere esteemed the work he per¬
formed at that institution as of great value, and regarded
bis untimely death as a serious loss to the University anti to
his race.”

His widow lives at Brentwood, Md., and through her
kindness we have secured the accompanying photograph, it

is a good face to look upon; it was the face of a good and
use! ul man.

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1 , f\ ov\ . > uirik t ;o fli Ja giiiihuot

toil itaiKnrf) bnc ..bM .booz/lnoifl !b mil vmbiw aili

•HBia lulsau

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

281

Dr. Robert Francis Plummer

When our brother, Henry, objected to our coming into
the family on that 7th day of September, 1860, to allay his
fears, mother predicted that the boy would be a doctor and
the girl a teacher. How sorry we are that we have not made
her desire more true than we have.

But mother did not know that when her babies were two
years, three months, and twenty-five days old, they, and all
would be forever free. Nor did she know that in attempting
to reach father, all would have to spend 60 days in jail! in

even !

As a boy, Robert was joyous, and happy, and is to this day.
His playmates, John and Reuben Moss, Robert Miner. William
Redd, Will Harris, Albert and John Alexander, and many
others love him to this day. Of all their sports, Robert loved
to throw a stone best of all. He seldom missed his target.
We were never separated until I went to Wayland in 1875,
aged 15 years.

Father kept him on the farm until he was twenty years
old. He remembers l)r. King excusing him to go home to
vote for the first time. After leaving Wayland he went to
Howard University, graduating in pharmacy in the First
Congregational Church, March, 1890. While attending Way-
land and Howard he worked for his sustenance.

As Dr. Robert’s certificate is written in la tin, we call
your attention to the eminent Doctors who signed it, on page
4, of the following programme of exercises, of Howard Uni¬

versity:

< . . .

282

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Commencement Exercises
of

Howard University

Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Class of ’90

at the

Congregational Church, Washington, D. C.

Friday Evening, March 14, 1890
Doors open at 7 Overture at 7.30

Officers of Medical Class

Janies J. Story, President; Walter P. Napper, Vice Presi¬
dent; Ellis D. Whedbee, Secretary; Joseph A. McDuffee,
Treasurer.

Officers of Dental Class

Isaac C. Edington, President; George A. Thompkins, Vice
President; William T. Jefferson, Secretary; Arthur T. Cooper,
Treasurer.

Officers of Pharmaceutical Class

William W. Purnell, President; Charles If. Deans, Vice
President; William P. Phelps, Secretary; Philip B. Brooks,
Treasurer.

Class Reception Committee
PROGRAMME

Overture — “Une Bonne Fortune” _ _ _ Adam

Selection — “Said Pasha” _ _ _ _ _ Stahl

March — “The High School Cadets” _ _ Sousa

Invocation

Ballad — “The Song that Reached My Heart” . . Fordon

Address to the Graduates
Prof. Charles B. Purvis, A. M., M. D.

Patrol — “Southern” _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Vaelkler

Conferring of Degrees

By Hon. John W. Noble, Secretary of the Interior

In Medicine

Cornet Solo — “Dorothy” — Aronson _ Mr. Walter l7. Smith

In Dentistry

Piccolo Solo — “Electric” — Dason . Mr. Henry Jaeger

In Pharmacy

Pipelaphone Solo — “Chimiry” — Melker, Mr. Samuel Johnson

iiobio'*! - « - w Hr, J I vt/i borb&ofl 1 o*l J ^no# orlT ‘ — bcllijH

XOKfflir.dM nl .

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

283

AWARD OE THE “HOOD” PRIZE

Address

J. E. Rankin, D. D., LL. D., President of the University

Song — “O’Rielly’s Kettledrum” _ Sousa

. . Benediction

Galop — “Cozette” _ Wannemacher

Music by the Marine Band
Mr. John Philip Sousa, Conductor
Decorations by Mr. Fred R. Reh.

Graduates in Medicine

• Allen J. Alston, W. R. Arthur, George W. Cahaniss, Thos.
D. Campbell, Alfred C. Dungee, Win. II. Fields, Win. E. Har¬
ris, Lucius J. Holly (A. B.), John II. Holmes, Norman R.
Jenncr, Frank G. Johnson, Benj. F. Jones, Chas. W. Keyes,
Jerry F. Lucas, Joseph A. McDuellc, Samuel M. McMillan,
Chas. 11. Marshall, Winfield S. Montgomery, Geo. ii. Richard¬
son (LL. B.), J. Frank Sawyer, A. C. Schwartz, Win. L. Sher-
rett (LL. M.), Seaborn C. Snelson, Jas. J. Story, Carrie Ii.
Thomas, Chas. D. Trice.

Graduates in Dentistry

Wm. M. Ash, Arthur T. Cooper, Isaac C. Edington, Jas.
H. Holsey, Rob’t J. MacBcth, Geo. A. Thompkins.

Graduates in Pharamcy

Philip B. Brooks*: Chas. 11. Deans, William P. Phelps,
Rob’t F. Plummer, Wm. W. Purnell.

Faculty of Medical Department

Thos. B. Hood, A. .M, M. D. — Dean, Professor of the Prin¬
ciples and Practice of Medicine and Clinical Lecturer on Medi¬
cine at Freedman’s Hospital.

Charles B. Purvis, A. M.. M. I). — Secretary and Treasurer,
Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children,
Surgeon in Charge of Freedman’s Hospital.

Neil F. Graham, M. D. — Professor of the Principles and
Practice of Surgery and Clinical Lecturer on Surgery at Freed¬
man’s Hospital.

Daniel S. Lamb, A. M., M. D. — Professor of Descriptive
and Surgical Anatomy.

William II. Seaman, A. M„ M. 1). — Professor of Chem¬
istry and Toxicology.

.11 ►ffin'l .7/ .mVi .lofiiinui1! .ri fdofl

284

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

John E. Brackett, M. D. — Professor of Materia Medica,
Therapeutics and Clinical Lecturer on Diseases of the Throat,
at Freedman’s Hospital.

Robert Reyburn, A. M„ M. D. — Professor of Physiology
and Medical Jurisprudence and Clinical Lecturer on Surgery,
at Providence Hospital.

John F. R. DuFour, M. D., D. D. S. — Professor of Prin¬
ciples and Practice of Dentistry. *

C. R. DuFour, M. D., Phar. D. — Professor of Pharmacy
and Botany.

F. J. Shadd, A. M., M. D. — Assistant to Chair of Physiol¬
ogy. Resident Physician and in charge of Dispensary Clinic
at Freedman’s Hospital.

Henry L. Yeatman, M. D., D. D. S. — Lecturer on Mechan¬
ical Dentistry.

J. Melvin Lamb, M. D. — Lecturer on Microscopy and
Histology.

G. N. Perry, M. D. — Demonstrator of Anatomy.

Thomas Miller, M. D. — Assistant Demonstrator of Anat
omy.

Walter S. Over, D. D. S. — Demonstrator in Dentistry.

T. Ellsworth Lee, D. D. S. — Demonstrator in Dentistry.
J. E. Rankin, President J. B. Johnson, Secretary

The seal on the certificate states that Howard University
was incorporated March 2, 1807, not a year after our church
was horn.

It does not state, however, that Gen. O. O. Howard plan¬
ned the school in a prayer meeting. This was told by Dr.
Patton, an ex-president’s son.

On May 20, 1901, Rabbi Abram Simon addressed the*
Teachers’ College, lie asked: “What is society?” We are
the soul of society. Teachers, go out, touch others. Make
my soul better. Teach not only the three IPs, but the three
H’s also: Head, Hand, and Heart.

God’s image on ivory is no greater than God’s image on
ebony.”

.M '• i .'1

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.mod bbw

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

285

The Board of Supervisors in Medicine and Pharmacy

of the

District of Columbia

To all whom these presents shall come, Greetings:

Whrceas, Robert Francis Plummer was on or before the
seventh day of May, 1900, registered as a pharmacist by the
Commissioners of Pharmacy of the District of Columbia, as
shown by the records of said Commissioners, he is hereby, in
accordance with the provisions of the Act of Congress en¬
titled “An Act to regulate the practice of pharmacy and the
sale of poisons, in the District of Columbia, and for other pur¬
poses,” approved May 7, 1906, licensed to practice pharmacy
in said District.

In witness whereof, we have caused the names of the
President and Secretary of this Board, and of the President
of the Board of Pharmaceutical Examiners, to be subscribed
and the seal of the District of Columbia to he affixed hereto.

Witness our hands, and the seal of the District of Co¬
lumbia, at Washington, this first day of March A. D., 1907.

J. B. Glynn Curtis, M. D., President.

Leo C. Ober, M. D., Secretary.

Frank C. Henry, Phar. D.

License No. 475.

SEAL — District of Columbia.

Besides possessing a loving disposition. Brother Robert
inherited the power to sin*? from our mother. He possesses
a deep, rich bass voice. From the time Elias trained us to
sing the songs of Zion, 1871, until today, we are thoroughly
interested in sacred music, especially. Dr. Robert has sung
in manv choirs. 19th Street, Berean, and everywhere he has
lived. Has sung in manv concerts, been associated with
Prof. J. T. Lavton, Prof. J. Henry Lewis, leader of the Am-
phions. Mr. Nalle. Mr. Will Cole, and many others.

He was never too busy to heln his home church when¬
ever possible, and manv sacrifices has he made for us.

In 1889 he married Miss Katie E. Cook, of Herndon, Va.
Four children were born to them, three of whom survive, —
Frank Victor, born Dec. 10, 1889. Nellie Beatrice, Oct. 17,
1891, and Emily Lucille, July 15, 1895,

.o 1 9*&aoiJ

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d! obmn ir.ari wjhhow. vnnm Jmic .oMi^on iavo

mn • m . rr.Iu ^ jo*I

.39(1 mot. /udoiV jfniriH

286

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

All the children received an equivalent to a high school
education.

Frank, after graduating from the high school in Wash¬
ington, took the four-year college course for A. B. at Cornell
University. Instead of returning to make up the one sub¬
ject in which he failed, lie took the four-year medical course
at Howard. He then went to Chicago, took a two-year post¬
graduate course and hung out his shingle on March 22, 1022.

On Sept. 28, 1920, he married Miss Carriebel Cole of
New York City, who was a teacher of Washington, D. C.
They have one little daughter, Jewell Isadora, born Jan. 17,
1924. They live in Chicago where Dr. Frank is practicing.
Good luck to the three.

After finishing school, Nellie Beatrice married Arthur F.
Chinn of Hvattsville, Dec. 12, 1912. One daughter, Emily
Jeanne, was born Nov. 27, 1918. Bea was named for me. I
loved her dearly. I have her shoe that she wore when 3 years
old — mud still on it.

E. Lucille, after finishing school, worked for the Govern¬
ment at Bureau of Engraving and Printing. On July. 12, 1915,
she married Warren S. Walker, a teacher, public.. schools,
Washington, D. C. • '

All the children of Robert and Katie Plummer are mem¬
bers of our beloved church, as well as themselves. Mrs.
Chinn is director of the choir, a deaconess, and a promoter
ot the Aid and the Federation of Women.

Mrs. Walker helps everywhere in the church work, and
is President of the Federation of Women. She has been lov¬
ing and kind to her father’s two old sisters.

During the twenty years Dr. Plummer has practiced
pharmacy, his wife has been his loyal supporter. She is most
industrious, a faithful wife, and a good mother. To me she
has been a loving sister until 1920. All her family, especially
Mrs. Cassie \ inc, have loved and respected all her husband’s
people. Me have loved and respected them. The dream of
my life came true when my brother and family decided to
come home to the Old Homestead to live. He has been a
communicant of St. Paul’s Baptist Church ever since May.
18/6, when he was baptized by Rev. II. V. Plummer, his

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

287

May the holy bond of love and friendship between us
emerge into eternity.

Wc much desire that his son-in-law, Arthur Chinn, shall
make and even surpass the enviable record made by his father,
Mr. Renjamin F.| Chinn, who is an honored citizen and busi¬
ness man of Hyattsville. Arthur seems to be thoroughly in¬
terested in all activities of the church, being an associate trus¬
tee. Warren S. Walker, who is reliable, quiet and thought¬
ful, is a trustee of our church.

Such as his position warrants. Good luck to Warren and
’Cille.

ST. PAUL'S BAPTIST CHURCH.

Blad ensburg, Maryland.

New Church — Remodeled in 1908,

288

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Nellie Arnold Plummer
A tribute of respect paid to a life-long friend,

bv Rev. G. W. Lucas.

•/

When I was born, the subject of my sketch was in her thir¬
teenth vear. But so closely have the Plummers and Lucases
been related, that I do not hesitate to “speak that I do know,
and testify to what I have seen.” Only this — “The half will
never be told.”

From a record kept by her father, I learn that Miss Nellie,
as we love to call her, was born on a large wooded hill called
“Woodlawn,” Ellicotts Mills, Howard County, Md., Sept. 7,
I860. She was brought to Hyattsville-Riverdale by her par¬
ents, Dec. 9, 1803, where she has made her home ever since.
When she was six years old she was learning the songs of
Zion from her sister, Miranda, who had just returned from
New Orleans. “0 for a faith that wall not shrink, Tlio’
pressed by every foe; That will not tremble on the brink Of
my earthly woe,” etc. A deep subject for a six-year-old child.
At seven she was presented to the deacons (H. V. Plummer
and Edward Miner, were two of them) for baptism, but was
rejected, because no child so young could give a reason for
the faith within her. The brethren didn't know that a child
so young could love, and love was what God wanted. Then
Mother Miranda spoke in the meeting: “Brethren, you will
be sorry for this. Jesus says, ‘suffer the little children’: vou
are reiecting them.” But the deacons would not yield. They
said. “If she keps this mind until she is ten. we will baptize
her.” She was ten in Sontcmber. The following May she
was again presented to the church. She was received, and
was baptized by Rev. Thompson of Baltimore. So short and
small was Rev. Thompson that the deacons had to hold a
chair on which he stood while baptizing the six candidates.
When he came to Sister Nellie, he asked, “Little Sister, how
old are vou?” She replied. “I am ten years old.” Then he
baptized her. “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Ghost.”

Mother Miranda had a great shout all to herself. Every¬
body gave way to her rejoicing. By the time our lit lie sister

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

289

readied the shore her sister threw a blanket about her. snatch¬
ed her lip in her arms, and carried her next door to the *‘Rab-
bit Gum” (as the church was called) to be dressed for com¬
munion. What a day to Sister Miranda! What a day to our
Little Sister! We know now, that it was the beginning of a
long and honored church career of more than fifty-five years!

How many times has Mother Miranda Clark related
these church sayings to me while pastor of St. Paul’s Baptist
Church, of Bladensburg 1899 — 1905!

Four years after her baptism, her mother, whom we all
called Aunt Emily, entered her in Wavland Seminary. After
the mother had told Dr. King that 1851-1855, she had been
a slave on that very spot, and used the same wells, etc., he
decided to take little Nellie, although she seemed too young.
In three years she was graduated from the Normal Depart¬
ment, came again in 1878-79 for one vear in the Academic.

This is the sword of the spirit which entered her soul,
that enabled her to fight life’s battles, — and which she later
caused others to receive.

WAYLAND SEMINARY

This is to certify that Nellie A. Plummer has completed
with credit a three years’ course of study in the Normal De¬
partment of this Seminary, and is entitled to this Certificate.
Washington, D. C., May 29, A. D. 1878.

G. M. P. King, President.

James Storum. Julia M. Bartlett, Teachers.

She graduated in Kindergarten, May 2!), 1884, with Miss
Bessie Cook (John F. Cook's daughter). Misses Perry, Lake,
and Hunt being while ladies,--

Mrs. Anna B. Ogden, Kindergartner.

Summer School of Pedagogy. Washington, D. C.

This is to cert if v that Nellie Plummer has pursued the
following studies during the Session of 1907.

Subjects Character of Work

History of Education Good

Principles of Education Good

General Method Good

Given at the School, August 2, 1907.

L. B. Moore,

Dean of Teachers College, Director, Howard University.

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OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Wayland Seminary

This is to certify that Mabel Vaughn Brown having com¬
pleted with credit the prescribed course of study in the Nor¬
mal Department of this Seminary, and pasesd the examina¬
tions, is entitled to this Certificate.

Washington, D. C., May 31, A. D. 1899.

George Rice Hovey, President.

Board of Education of the District of Columbia

This is to certify that Nellie Brown was a student in the
Armstrong Manuel Training School from October, 1904, to
June 15, 1906, and satisfied all the requirements of this school
in the following studies for the period named — Millinery.

J. A. Chamberlain, Director.

W. B. Evans, Principal.

I. Holesworth Gordon, President.

William W. Conner, Secretary.

REV. WILLIAM ROBERT ARNOLD.
Brother of Emily Plummer.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS •

291

Although not a theological student she sought every op¬
portunity to listen to their discussions, and hear them recite.
Wherever the Bible was read there she was if possible, — in
devotion, in prayer meeting (early morning). Now you will
not wonder, why she is so well versed in the Scriptures. Then
there was another art in which she was to excel, — church
music. At the time of her tutelage in Wayland, a Prof. T.
H. Williams of St. Augustine (Catholic) Church, who was an
associate with Madam Agnes Smallwood, had charge of the
music. Here that which was born in her was developed.
She was selected to travel in 1880, as a Jubilee singer to raise
funds for the building of Parker Hall, annex to Wayland.
From then on, she was as it were skilled in sacred music.
This accounts for the unusual manner in which she conducted
the music of her beloved church, in every department, ex¬
celling in the Sunday School. As teacher and principal of
Orphans’ Home School, she had a wonderful opportunity to
develop her power in sacred song. Wherever she went her
church was well represented in this particular as well as in
prayer, and power to exhort and teach.

I am more convinced than ever that the half of what this
unique soul has done can never be told. How often “Mother”
Miranda has told me of a dream Sister Nellie had, in which
she was told that “She should have a seat among the righteous,
and cause the eyes of many to be opened.” How glad 1 am
Mother Miranda lived to see her little sister about her “Fath¬
er’s business,” in the fulfillment of that dream. She has
played the organ, and led the singing in numberless funerals,
as well as anniversary occasions. Gratuitously Hid she render
such service for Ghurch and Sunday School, thus going “one
mile,” but never hesitated to go “two miles” on all other occa¬
sions.

In 1879-1880 she taught at Forestville, Md. It was here
that she boarded with Mrs Rosetta Douglass Sprague, who
lived in a large and beautiful farm house. Mr. and Mrs.
Nathan Sprague had six interesting children, — Annie R., (who
became the wite of Rev. (.has S. Morris of Norfolk and Ports¬
mouth. She was a skilled musician, every inch a queen),
Harriet, Estelle, 1" redericka (named for her illustrious grand¬
father), Herbert, and Rosa. On week-ends, running up to

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292

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Washington to visit her sister, she would return by way of
Anacostia, meeting the Sprague family at their lather and
grandfather’s, — the Hon. Frederick Douglass. 01 ten the
grandfather and grandson (Mr. Joseph Douglass) played their
violins together. She remembers “Seeking For Me,” in par¬
ticular.

In 1880, she taught at Cross Roads,. Charles County, Md.
Remained until Jan. 1, 1882. Here Mrs. Lettie Diggs-Posev
with a large family of children, make up some of her dearest
associations. Mrs. Angcline Carroll. ?dr. Willie Carroll, Mrs.
Margaret Carroll Hancock, Mrs. Hannah Posey- Ward, Miss
Katie Skinner-Swann, her brother. Thus. Skinner, Mr. Joseph
Dunnington, chairman of our Trustee Board, etc., are just a
few friends of precious memory. September. 1882, found her
at Round Hill, Ya. On Jan. 1, 1883, she received an appoint¬
ment to the public schools of Washington, I). C., by Mr. W. H.
A. Wormlev.

When school opened in January, the first week was spent
at Bcnning, D. C. On Jan. 8, 1883, she entered Orphans’
Home school, where she was to remain thirty-six years, one
month and three weeks. She was then transferred to the
B. K. Bruce School, (because of the temporary closing of Or¬
phans’ Home), where she remained four years, retiring Dec.
31, 1922. at her own recyuest. Thus ended five years teaching
in Maryland and Virginia, and forty years in the Washington
school. During all these forty-five years her zeal for and in¬
terest in the church never abated, but grew apace.

To my personal knowledge as her pastor, she has written
hundreds of eulogies, notices, programs, and thousands of
letters. She has said again and again that The Union owes
all of its original Constitution and By-Laws to the thought
and pen of that good man. a friend and brother in deed. Rev.
F. G. Hall. Since his passing, our Constitution and By-Laws
have been revised twice (1900, 192fi). T venture that our
Sister had walked in Brother Hall s footsteps, and helped the
committee to bring us up-to-date in this last revision, as well
as the 1900 one.

I might say just here, that our Union has had but three
treasurers during these fiftv-six years of her existence, — Rev.
II. \. Plummer, Rev. F. G. Hall, and Sister Nellie A. Plummer,

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

293

who succeeded Rev. Hall, Jan. 8, 1900. On anniversary Sun¬
days, she has often said, “We have met every obligation, not
owing a postage stamp, and yet have more than three thou¬
sand dollars in the hank.” She has guarded our treasury
as a most sacred trust !

• When our sister had been at The Home School twenty
years, Mrs. Helen Appo Cook, and Miss Ressie Cook, the wife
and daughter of Mr. John F. Cook, for the Association, pre¬
sented her a most beautiful vase, of exquisite coloring. Sister
Nellie often tells us that she received the vase in honor of
her “china wedding.”

Then Solomon Rrown, the poet of Anacostia, compliment¬
ed her on “Twenty Years a Teacher.” It is as follows:

MRS. MARY MAILSTOCK ARNOLD.
An Excellent Mother, — an Ideal Minister's Wife.

234 OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“TWENTY YEARS A TEACHER”

Lines congratulatory and complimentary to Miss Nellie
A. Plummer, of Hvattsville, Md., who has taught the little
ones at Orphans’ Home for twenty years, by Solomon (i.
Brown, Anacostia, D. C. “I have noticed her work and re¬
joice over her success.” — Brown. September, 1903.

For twenty years, she’s a faithful creature.

For twenty years, she’s a faithful teacher;

How many errors she’s removed

How many dear ones she’s improved
Time alone will answer.

For twenty years she’d go and come
For twenty years explaining sums;

For twenty years close to her race

Till she’s come to learn and know each face
And read each separate mind.

In twenty years how much she’s said

To those passed out to earn their bread;

Who hold her picture in their mind

How much she’s taught they can’t define
While engager in life's fair duties.

In twenty years what she has seen

Since twenty years hath passed between;

’Twould be a volume if written out
To tell just what she's been about.

In all her daily movement.

Some worthy praises she’s received.

From those who could her worth conceive;

In this they notice every mark

Which plainly shows out in the dark;

Hear zeal is known to many.

It must have hecn to her great joy,

A peace of mind with no alloy;

To know that she’s been doing good
Her mind and work’s been understood
By those most interested,
e praise the Lord for all He’s done
The glorious gift of His dear Son;

M ho suffered death for you and me
Who groaned, died upon the tree
To save, a sinful people.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

205

Our sister savs she began to travel in 1880, before she
was 20 years old. Her first trip was going as a Jubilee Singer
with a company of others under the leadership of Dr. G. M.
P. King, raising funds for Parker Hall, annex to Wayland
(1880). Saratoga, several times, Gay Head, Newport, R. I.,
Milford, N. II. (1800), Ithaca, N. Y., several times. Fort Rob¬
inson, Nebr., Wyoming, South Dakota. Chicago, Ill. (World’s
Fair, 1893), Buffalo. Niagara Falls (visited Shredded Wheat
home), Nashville Centennial, Atlanta, Tuskegec, Hampton,
and Jamestown Exposition. She wants to visit California
then she will be readv to go abroad.

In 1924, a testimonial was tendered “Sister” Nellie by her
church, community, and school friends of Washington, D. C.

Mrs. Mahalath Frances (Misha) Jackson-Wiggonton-
Brown was the first to mention the testimonial at a meeting
of “The Federation of Women” in Bladensburg. It was but
natural that the church should take the lead as the recipient
has been one of its members for more than a Half century.
Many who, like myself, could not be present that night, re¬
membered her later. Mrs. Rosetta Lawson, with her grand¬
son, made a pilgrimage to Ilyattsville, the next day (June 7,
1924), and in person showered her congratulations and gifts.
So, for these two vears, our sister has been remembered, the
last being July 5. 1926, when Mr. and Mrs. Monroe Richmond
did as so many others had done, by calling in person, and
presented a beautiful statuette of a woman in flowing robes,
chiseled out of pure white marble.

If you have never visited “Mount Rose,” the Plummer's
homestead, at Ilyattsville, von have missed something. Water
is supplied from a well 35 feet deep. It is ice cold on the
hottest day, and has never run dry.

Her library, the family portraits, and the many interest¬
ing things that she can tell about them will, indeed, repay
anyone who cares to make the visit.

I am told Mr. Adam Plummer named their homestead
“Mount Rose” in 1868, because of the hundreds and hundreds
of rose bushes that he planted. At the proper season there
were bowers of roses, hence the name.

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290

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“Sister” Nellie and my own Sister, Mary, are nearly the
same age. They became life-long friends from the first, and
to this day they are steadfast friends or “sisters,” without
ever a break. I know of no one more welcome in the home
of Mrs. Mary Lucas Ross-Fickling than Nellie Arnold Plum¬
mer. It was not my privilege to be present as much as I desired
to be. But I received a copy of the proceedings, as published
in the “Tribune,” by Mr. George G. Waters, a near neighbor
to the Plummers. Knowing just how true is every statement
and that the half can never be told, I shall copy largely from
that:

MRS. HENRIETTA BROOKS.

Sister of Emily Plummer.

- --1J-

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

297

GLOWING TRIBUTE PAID MISS NELLIE PLUMMER BY

BLADENSBURG, MD., CITIZENS

I am proud lo say I have been a neighbor of Miss Plum¬
mer for years and had I been asked to sum up this matter,
I would have said: “Her work speaks for itself.” But on re¬
ceiving my invitation I find the object expressed in so unique
a manner that I wisli to repeat it here:

On Friday, June 6, 1924, 8 to 10.30 P. M., A Testimonial to
Miss Nellie A. Plummer will be given at Bladensburg, Md.

St. Paul’s Baptist Church, of Bladensburg, Maryland, has
honored itself by tendering a Testimonial to Miss Nellie Ar¬
nold Plummer, who has been a faithful member for fifty-three
years, and a loyal teacher for forty-live years.

As we endeavor to give due recognition for the unusual,
unselfish and broad-spirited services rendered church, home,
school, and community, by our sister for a life-time, we urge
you lo join us in cheering her with your presence.

Especially do we invite any who have been under her
influence at Orphans’ Home, her pupils in our Sunday School,
and as co-laborers with her in the Bladensburg Union. The
officers and teachers of the Public Schools of the District of
Columbia, need no invitation as she belongs to them. We
firmly believe that the time to present ilowers is when one
can see them, and inhale their fragrance; that we should speak
worthily when one can hear, and the heart can feel. For this
reason all who know our sister arc cordially invited to be
present, thus doing your part to help us “render honor to
whom honor is due.”

Mrs. Hattie Moss Fortune, Chairman of Testimonial Com¬
mittee. Mrs. Sarah Miranda Plummcr-Johnson, Church
Clerk. Rev. Hampton T. Gaskins, Pastor.

Surely St. Paul’s Baptist Church has honored itself. For
I’ve heard members and friends who have worshipped there
twenty-five, thirty or forty years, say they never saw anything
so grand there before. I doubt that even Miss Plummer who
remembers the church in its nearly fifty-eight years of exist¬
ence, ever saw before the like there.

When I tell you that The J. II. Small’s leading Decorator,
Mr. Henry Wheeler, who has been almost a life-long friend
of Miss Plummer’s, was in charge, you will know how perfect
the decorations were.

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298

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The Guest of Honor sat in the center of the stage under
the palms. To her right sat Mrs. M. F. Wigginton-Brown,
mistress of ceremonies, and Rev. Hampton T. Gaskins, the
pastor. To her left sat Rev. I)r. W. J. Howard; Rev. Loving,
of Wayland Seminary; Rev. Chas. Cushingberry, former pas¬
tor; Rev. E. Q. Plummer, one of the seven original members
of the church, and Dr. Robert F. Plummer, her twin brotiier
who sat next to the Guest of Honor.

The Program

1. Anthem — “Beautiful Garments! Why not put them
on!” — by the choir, Mrs. Nellie Beatrice Plummer-Chinn, Di¬
rectress.

2. Scripture — Prov. 31:10, 25-31, read. Prayer offered
by the Pastor, Rev. H. T. Gaskins.

3. Duet — “All, yes, all I give to Jesus.” (By special re¬
quest of Guest of Honor.) Mrs. Carrie Broome and Miss
Marie Plummer.

4. Introductory Remarks by Mistress of Ceremonies who
closed with the Wayland Motto — “Be all you seem to be, Aim
to he more than you seem to be,” — Declaring that the Guest
of Honor had lived up to that motto better than any one else
she knew.

5. A Bevy of Little Children’s Tributes. Fifty-three chil¬
dren marching in line mounted the stage, the first one bearing
a beautiful basket which was given to the Honor Guest, in
which every child placed a rose. When all had passed the
basket was over-filled, and all about her feet lay the children’s
tribute. Little Miss Louise Plummer Moss recited three
verses about the Home, the. Church, and the School. Miss
Plummer responded by telling them (“Ye are better than all
the ballards that ever were sung, or said — For ye are living

poems — All the rest are dead.”)

G. Tribute from the Church.

Beginning with the pastor, the head of every auxiliary of
the church was called to the platform, as was also the Bla-
densburg Union, and the Federation of Women.

Miss Eliza B. Wheeler, who is so well known for her
elocutionary power, and her Christian integrity, was spokes¬
man. She was never better, hut could it have been otherwise
with so much inspiration all about her?

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

299

7. Poems Dedicated and Letters Read by Rev. G. W. M.
Lucas, ex-pastor. In the absence of Rev. Lucas, Rev. Gas¬
kins kindly and graciously acted in his stead.

First he read a short sketch of Miss Plummer’s life.
There was a poem written, dedicated, and read on June 18,
1905, by the late Solomon G. Brown, the Bard of Anacostia,
entitled “Work Well Done,” In 1903, Miss Plummer had been
at Orphans’ Home twenty years, and Mr. Brown made his
theme “Twenty years a Teacher.” Then he said: ”1 have
noticed her work and rejoice over her success.” What would
the poet have written could he have seen the close of forty-
five years of SERVICE by her in the school room?

Upon receipt of her invitation. Miss Bessie E. Clay of
1906 Third Street Northwest, composed a poem of twelve
verses. It’s preface is — “Original poem, dedicated to Miss
Nellie A. Plummer and presented to her at a Testimonial
given by her friends, June 6, 1921, in St. Paul’s Baptist Church,
Bladensburg, Md.”

Miss Clay had the extreme pleasure of reading her poem,
and then presenting it in person. 1 hope I may be permitted
to publish the entire poem later. Rev. Gaskins exhibited
nranv tokens of good will — One an unusually beautiful china
vase selected and given by the late Mrs. John F. Cook, in
honor of, as Miss Plummer savs — “Pier China Wedding stav
at the Home.” A loving cup standing on an ebony base, was
presented by her church in 1912 for persistent and arduous
efforts in paying off the cost of rebuilding.

Our late, but great, Dr. Mattie V. S. Lee caught the in¬
spiration and saw that the cup was presented at a suitable
banquet. There were many other tokens from family and
friends, especially from her former pupils at the Home.

A beautifully illustrated poem — Longfellow’s “A Psalm
of Life” that had been presented by Mrs. Sarah E. Gaskins
(Mother of Rev. Gaskins), who was present. I must ([note
one more. (Could you see these tokens you’d think they were
selected for occupants of the White House — so beautiful are
they.) “From Greenland's lev Mountains.” an illustrated
poem by Reginald Ileber, just the top lid of which would de¬
scribe Miss Plummer’s entire life work. Inside I find this
inscribed: “Miss Nellie A. Plummer, Christmas, ’93.

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300

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

‘If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work upon
brass, time will efface it; it we rear temples, they will crumple
into dust — but, if we inbue them with principles with a just
fear of God, and love of our fellowman, we inscribe upon
these, something that will brighten to all eternity.*

The Home,

Miss Coralie Franklin, Supt.”

The same Miss Franklin is now Mrs. Carolie Franklin
Cook, and is at present a member of the Board of Education,
Washington, D. C. Now as great and busy a woman as is
Mrs. Cook, she was not too great to see Miss Plummer’s worth
back in 1893.

As to the letters from those who could not be present,
there are scores of them. I’m so sorry each one of them can¬
not be published, for each is a testimonial in itself.

What a prize Prof. G. C. Wilkinson’s letter is, on her
retirement, January, 19123; also ?\Iiss Laura G. Arnold’s. Rev.
G. W. Brent, wrote May 27, 1921. “Say it with dollars ought
to be as commendable as ‘Sav it with flowers.* I am glad
that the church agreed to honor you while you are yet alive.
God rewards you this for your unselfish devotion and patient
endurance in Jesus’ name, and just for Iiis sake! And let me
say — this is only the beginning of good things wherewith he
will surprise you, and comfort your soul! It is better further
on!”

Rev. Brent was an inmate of Orphans’ Home, 1867-1870.
No one knows of the real inlluence for good that went out
from Orphans’ Home, who does not know of the Quaker sis¬
ters, the late Misses Eliza and Jane llcacock. Their sister,
Miss Annie, wrote: Wyneole, Pa., May 28, 1921 — Dear Miss
Plummer: We arc interested in the project of your friends
to show you honor, for we feel sure you fully deserve it.
My sisters were your good friends, and I’in sure, were they
living, they would heartily sanction it.

You have lived a quiet, simple life of duty, and you are
blessed to live to see that others think so. I know it is what
you wanted to do. I hope June 6th will be a beautiful day
for you, and were it possible, my sister and 1 would like to be
near you.”

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

301

Mrs. M. L. Meriwether, vice-president of Orphans’ Home
Board, wrote June, 1924 — “An exemplary life has its rewards.
It must be very pleasant for you to know while you live, how
your labor has been appreciated. I shall take pleasure in
reading your note and invitation to the ladies, at our next
meeting, June 3rd.”

On Fore-fathers’ Day, December 21, 1922, at the recep¬
tion tendered Miss Plummer (upon her voluntary retirement
from the public schools, Washington, D. C.), by Prof. M. G.,
and Dr. Marie Lucas, Mrs. Meriwether was present and pre¬
sented a handsome picture of Jesus, and John the Baptist.
The picture was selected by Miss E. A. Cook (only daughter
of the late John F. Cook.) Vice-President of the Home Board,
in honor of the more than thirty-six years of service at the
Home by Miss Plummer, and because of her love for little
children. She allows no one to visit her home without seeing
the beautiful rocker given to her by her beloved teachers at
the B. Iv. Bruce School.

••LADY

Born F ebruary 8 ,

” ELIZABETH PLUM MER-CARPENTER .

1821, — Died December II, li)25, — nearly 1 0f> years old.
Sisler ol Adam t . Plummer.

302

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

“2110 14th Street N. \V.#

Washington, D. C.

My dear Miss Plummer:

Accept my thanks for the invitation to be present at your
Testimonial. I am glad to add my word of commendation of
one who did faithful, loyal service as teacher in the schools
under my administration. I believe in saying the good words
when one can hear them.

Your influence over the boys and girls in the Home can¬
not be measured. You were not only the teacher, but the
mother.

May there be many years before you to enjoy the fruits
of your labor. Sincerely your friend,

Marion P. Shadd.”

Milford, N. H., June 2, 1924.

Miss Nellie A. Plummer,

Dear Friend: The Testimonial to be tendered you June
6th, is quite appropriate, and indeed ought, and must be a
very enjoyable occasion for all concerned, especially so for
yourself.

It must be satisfactory for you to look back to your life’s
work as teacher, and benefactor; and to have left with you
today so many appreciative friends. You certainly are to be
congratulated. Sincerely yours,

Wendell Phillips Tarbell.”

Mr. Tarbell who has a brother, Julian, is a nephew of
Miss Julia M. Bartlett, known to every Waylandite, and an
associate teacher with the great Dr. G. M. P. King, and Prof.
James Slorum.

8. Test Work, by Rev. Chas. Cushingberrv. He said: “I
have made great sacrifices to be here tonight, and must hurry
away. After paying strong and warm tribute to the worth
and character of Miss Plummer, Rev. Ghas. Cushingberrv
thought she was duly tested by the thorough manner in which
forces everywhere were rallied, when the church burned in
1907. She enthused and encouraged us so much until within
five years every dollar of the $5,500 was paid, and our re¬
modeled church stood free of debt. She cashed a life insur¬
ance policy for $500, and gave the entire sum toward the
rebuilding.

woikj'jn b ai .*ioilloid r, Bml oiiw HodicT /iM

o) nv/otvA J JohiiU I Af. uiiul vexlA

viiuit \tnni on j* inert ‘mil m oi j /jilho J i;oiu sboin over!

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

303

“Had she kept that policy until the time was out, it would
have meant more than a thousand dollars to her. It was just
such sacrifices that endeared her to us. And she gave largely
at every rally also. I believe that through her we set up the
example of paying off church debts, for many of the churches
in Washington rallied and paid off large debts, thus saving
much interest, after seeing what a little church could do,
under proper leadership.” Just here a pause was made in the
program to allow a former pupil from Orphans’ Home to
honor and cheer her teacher; say a word before leaving. On
coming to the stage, Mrs. Maud Johnson McElroy told how
she determined to come, although not very well. During
her remarks she paused again and again to say: “May God
bless her,” until the hearts of all were touched even to weep-
ing.

9. Home life by Dr. R. F. Plummer was next in order.
It is seldom that any brother pauses to pay such a high trib¬
ute to his sister. How I’d like to include his every word. He
said in part: “Considering the close relation between the one
for whom this Testimonial is given and mvself, I heartilv
join in showing the family’s appreciation for her great work
home, here, and at school.

“You can’t have this great demonstration without includ¬
ing me, for we are twin brother and sister. My first great
sorrow came when she went away to Wayland School, lor
we had never been separated.

“While we were yet very small, 1 composed my first song.
‘Little Sister’s got the “moestess,” but 1 don’t care.’ I sang
these words making a tune as I went along with tears stream¬
ing down my face. Her piece was always smaller but I
thought otherwise.

Now, according to this demonstration, she is still getting
the “moestess.” Then I did care, but now 1 don’t care. For
1 am glad from the bottom of my heart that you see fit to
give her her llowcrs now while she can see, and realize your
Jove, and loyalty, and faithfulness. Keeping her word has
been a tower of strength to her.

I will trust her anywhere, under all circumstances, for
she has never failed us.

aol Jooilo t bfiBlvuW af vavre Jnov/ aria noil*// oriun v/onoa

,r>il oJ » tjv/oI h flood

,'mjlwyjm tori lam) Hi// 1

304

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

No matter how hard or dark seemed the way, she always
found a ray of light leading to safety. Her three strong points
are: first. Do Rigid; second, Never Forsake a Friend; third,
Have the Spirit of Forgiveness.

Nothing can, and nothing will ever separate us but the
inevitable — Death. Our father was exactness itself. His
motto was “To do right is no more than your every day duty,
but when sister paid the last dollar on our new house to Hon.
Frederick Douglass, father said: “Well done, good and faith¬
ful servant.” No other has ever pleased her as much as those
words coming from our firm, strict Sire, unless it be this won¬
derful demonstration here tonight. You think many good
things of her, but I know, f also know the half can never
be told. My sister, may this great gathering of friends with
all said and done here, cheer you through your remaining
years, and may you remember them, even to the gates of
Heaven. For I love Mother, Home, and Heaven. They shall
include you forever!”

Terse Sayings:

“You are worth your weight in gold here, Miss Nellie.” —
Mr. F. H. Smith.

“What if you had not been educated and tempered with
the love of Christ?” — Dr. G. M. P. King.

“Did you ever shake hands with her?” — Mr. J. R. Moss.
*

“Miss Nellie, you are a choir in yourself.” — Rev. J. H.

Dailev.

•/

“Fame does not count — but what begets fame — Truth,
Love, Others!” — Rev. G. W. Moore.

10. Address on Miss Plummer's love for humanitv, as
shown by her loyalty to her own race, and showing her special
fitness to inspire others to patriotism, was to have been made
by Mrs. Julia Mason Layton, who could not come.

11. Remarks In invited guests were made by Rev. Dr.
W. J. Howard, his good wife being present. Rev. Loving, Mr.
Maxfield, and many, many others.

12. Church Summary by tin* pastor. Rev. 11. T. Gaskins,
was indeed eloquent. Rut the pastor excelled himself in the
climax of his remarks when lie declared that Miss Plummer’s
zeal and fitness, and faithfulness, and work- logically made

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vrfi < ,:a bnB /run av/o iofl nj lo4 vd nv/oila

o hi n>*j oifw .finivnJ o. i i 1 4 j;itul- .aiM yd

i . , /< i mi i i : i L’i

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

305

her the Mother of the Church, succeeding her sister, Sarah
Miranda Plummer-Clark, and thus making her eligible to all
the Women’s Auxiliaries. Then Rev. Gaskins honored him¬
self by calling her Organist Emeritus, for the long years of
service as organist and leader of the Church Music.

13. Presentation was then made by the pastor — A large
victrola costing SI 50 was given to Miss Plummer as a token
of the great service rendered in sacred music for the Church
and Sunday School, indeed every department of Church serv¬
ice, especially the prayer meeting. The family presented her
a gold watch, and chain symbolic of the fact that she is as
good as gold to them.

A large basket of roses and peonies was presented by Mr.
Henry Wheeler, the decorator. The basket of flowers stands
nearly as tall as the recipient and was larger than she! The
flowers will fade, but that basket will be kept as long as she
lives.

A large bunch of peonies with verses attached was given
by Mr. and Mrs. William Fountroy. Mr. Maxfield presented
three books, Mrs. V. R. Holmes, and many, many others made
presentations. Dozens and dozens had “said it with dollars’’
until the committee was fully satisfied.”

14. Response by Guest of Honor. For several moments
Miss Plummer sat speechless with joyful gladness, and when
she could speak she said “Such a demonstration never was!”
She made it plain to her hearers that it was useless for her
to trv to thank them for all she might sav would fall short of
expressing the joy and gladness in her heart.

She poured out the contents of a thankful heart, and to¬
day she stands, and will ever stand deeply grateful. Grateful
to all. Even to those who could not come she feels grateful
for their good wishes, and even the smallest token sent or
given she shall lock forever in her heart-chest of appreciation,
and girdled with the love and sympathy of ail who know, or
who know of her, she will “carry on," serving mankind and
glorifying God!

Speaking further. Miss Plummer said, “The hardest thing
an old teacher has to do is to keep from forcing lessons on
unwilling ears. A lawyer before Judge and Jury must prove
his point.

./(nfimo^I innifH.W' stU bn* aM vd

.^ncMJiiUiosaiq

bit* : 'jiU Ar.o<\a bhioo o/ls
loi <; 8iiW li hull afipiiiptl 10/!. ol «iclq Ji obum 0lL2

* icofi iOf[ ni F^nhblft bn a (oj. orlt jtniaaoiqxo

v / ' llr/7 lin’fi .*b>if;)* *>1(2 yub

vi»*4l ol nr*3

30G

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

First, If all that is being said, and done here tonight is
not for the Glory of God, and to the honor of this, His Church,
then a terrible mistake has been made. I shall prove that
none of this honor belongs to me.

My parents more by example than precept taught 11s that
a good name is more to he chosen than great riches, (that was
father), and loving kindness than silver and gold — (that was
mother).

Sister Miranda (founder of this church) literally acted
out her Faith in God.

Brother Henry had a Word, and what ever he promised,
was as good as done.

Then came the Alden-Tinker familv, and Col. Bingham.
Then Dr. G. M. P. King and those four glorious years of
preparation at Wayland. Then the Quaker Ileacock sisters
at Orphan’s Home, not forgetting our great friend, teacher,
and pastor. Rev. F. G. Hall, Brother Edward Minor, Jesse
Bumphery, Richard Holland, my loving twin brother, and a
host of others. I wanted to be like all these. Hence if any¬
thing was said or done here, it was they who spoke, and acted
tin oiijQi me. I’ve proven my point! Namely: the honor be¬
longs to them and not to me.

Now when only seven years of age 1 dreamed that I was
told that I should have a seat among the righteous, and cause
the eyes of many to he opened. From then until now. I’ve
tried never to iorteit my “scat,’* nor to lessen my opportunity
to “open the eyes.” Tonight I find myself seated among the
righteous, and my heart is filled with His glory! Mother led
in singing “Happy New Year” — and for these forty-eight
years that she has been gone w’ve sung it as best we could.
One. verse— “I come to tell you the Truth of my heart, I’m
married to Jesus, and never hope to part.” When seven years
old I took that vow that married me to Jesus — that is to my
fellow-man through His Church.

Now why my Mother, this church and you have delayed
m.v “Wedding Reception” for fifty-six years, is a guess you
must tinswci loi yourselves, unless it was to test me, to prove
me.

iM> «»r / n i'll! 10 k'jf} on

/till Iir>7 tl nmi J ?i/|| ,T>tflc»M vet vil // v/oX

'iff! t it >c^li li anaiUfvit Mt.L. .. - . »

out J20i ol ?cv/ )1 «*?jinu hjJ -m/e(tB l«]fTi

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

307

Two of my bridesmaids, faithful these fifty-six years, are
with me tonight. I refer to my sister-in-law, Mrs. Fannie
Plummer, and my own mother-sister, Mrs. Julia Plummer-
RufTin.

In the year of 1887 I lost a brother-in-law whose dying
words were: “Your kindness will never be forgotten”! Thus
changed the whole trend of my life. 1 gradually came to the
conclusion that I was indeed married to Jesus, and that my
task was the begetting of immortal children. I’m tonight to
report to heaven that many of my children, and grand-chil¬
dren, are all about me here tonight, and that I have always
done the best I could under the circumstances. I may be par¬
doned if I report also that during these long years of service
I have never been late nor reprimanded at home, nor church,
nor school. Must I say “Thank You” from the youngest child
here to the oldest person? 0, how small “Thank You,” is
for this great ovation?

Above all things I have cherished my freedom? Free to
do as I choose! Tonight I give up my freedom, and willingly
and gladly become your grateful siave!

308

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

THANKSGIVING

Not for the wealth that men may count
Do I give thanks today.

But for the truth I’ve chanced upon
As I went on my way.

I’m glad for tears which showed me need
Of human sympathy.

For failure and for foolishness
Which taught me charity.

I’m glad mv work has let me know
How other workers feel.

That my own wounds have made me wish
All other wounds might heal.

I’m glad through poverty I’ve learned
The falsity of things.

That in my needv night I’ve heard
The rush of deathless wings
Which swept my spirit up and up
To peaks where I could see
The trail to peace that ready waits
For all humanity.

For I have found this truth at last.

In all life’s troubled span

There is no greater good than this —

To love your fellow-man.

For only as you share his lot
With generosity.

Will you grow fit to break your bonds
And set vour spirit free.

So, not for wealth that men may count
Do I give thanks today.

But for the truth I've chanced upon
As I went on my wav,

'V • , >./ <f r

Jani Is iDtnl aid! hnuol ovod T io1!

*bno n. o*{ jjnoi<[ oj til v/oi 4 uov HiW

.001*1 Jiiiqa inov ioa bn A
imioo yum nom Jr.dl ftJlnov/ ioI Ion ,o2

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

309

Scores of relatives and friends can now testify that her
untiring efforts and zealous influence helped them to see the
marvelous “Light of the Gospel.” A public servant does not
always get praise. One sometimes becomes very great, but
for some trifling thing is dropped out of our memory. So
it is significant and worthy of notice that this sister has,
through long years, rendered such service that home, church,
school and community really appreciates her efforts as is
evidenced here tonight.

After the benediction an impromptu reception was held
and many congratulations given. It would take an extra re¬
porter to describe the beautiful repast that was spread in the
lecture room. Surely every member of the church and com¬
munity must have worked together for success. The church,
through its committee, Mrs. Hattie Moss Fortune, chairman,
deserves unstinted praise for the perfect accomplishment of
so grand a Testimonial. Too much credit could not be given
to the mistress of ceremonies, Mrs. M. F. Wigginton-Brown,
whose dignity in presiding was success in itself. As she was
responsible for the invitations, I most heartily agree with
her that the Church has more than honored itself by tender-
ing this Testimonial to one who has given “full measure,
pressed down, and running over.”

In a few last remarks, Miss Plummer said: “To my be¬
loved Church I want to sav ;forget everything else but do not
forget the influence of Dr. King that has brought us up to
where we are. To forget that influence would be ingratitude.

“My object in retiring before being entirely broken down
in health, was to be able to write the story of my father’s
life, which means the History of St. Paul’s Baptist Church,
Bladensburg, Md.”

And Miss Plummer stepped forth with renewed vigor,
and with a still stronger determination to follow fast the
straight and narrow path hewn by her Sires, and with her
will go the multitude who have come up under her guiding
influence, holding high the Cross of Christ, and chanting ever
as they go on and on — “Lift Him Up.”

GEO. G. WATERS.

Hvattsville, Md.

Next I quote “Original Poem,” by Miss Bessie Clay: ]

.10/0 j-iiiniun belt ,nv/ul) boaeoiq

.am 07/ oioiiv/

AjwdD JeiJquti sflui; i ! » yioieiH odJ nrrmi rioidw fo1iI

i>M 'tjiijcfcaohftUi

‘C J3 i 3 oiaaoH will yd/.rttoo*! laoj^irO” oJoup I ixoVl

310

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

ORIGINAL POEM

Dedicated to Miss Nellie A. Plummer, and presented
her at a testimonial given bv her friends, Friday, June 0, 19
in St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladcnsburg, Maryland.

In this dear church where she has stood,

And rendered service full and free,

. A fitting testimonial should
Be given her, by you and me.

How better can we show our pride.

In one, who to her friends are dear;

One who has labored side by side
With many who are gathered here.

Unselfish, true to life’s demands,

She never falters in her task;

With loving heart and willing hands
She works; What more can duty ask?

Straight forward in her dealings, she
Has won our confidence and love.

Leading a life of chastity
Strengthened by power from above.

For church, community and home
She alwavs does her level best;

Her a inis for high ideals alone
Is true worth’s sure and valid lest.

With youthful minds to train at school
She labored on from day to day;

Assuring them (he “Golden Rule’’

God wishes each one to obev.

ore

!i)*f;rb to 'iTH a snibuoJ

hi ini 2Jmj)BOwi

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

311

How glad we are dear friends tonight
That our beloved one is still
Within our midst to our delight
Her future mission to fulfill.

Flowers of praise, we give her now.

While she, their fragrance can inhale;

Her fondly cherished hopes we vow
For church and school shall never fail.

We hope to merit to the end,

A privilege, we all hold dear;

To know her and to call her friend.

With true and loyal hearts sincere.

How much we love her, only those
Who know her value, can acclaim;

Her many virtues, calm repose,

Inspire reverence for her name.

May future years bring naught hut peace
And may she reap, as she has sown;

Her sorrow lessen, joys increase.

Prosperity surround her home.

And, when her daily course is run.

May she go forth her Lord to greet.

And hear Him say: “My child, well done!”

Enter thou into life complete.

Compliments of the Author,

Bessie E. Clay,

1906 Third Street X. W.

Washington, I). C.

pv<A ovr iloum wolf

312

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Following is one other Testimonial Letter:

Takoma Park, Md., June 6, 1924.

Mrs. Hattie Moss Fortune,

Chairman of Testimonial Commtitee at St. Paul’s Baptist

Church, Bladensburg, Md.

My dear Mrs. Fortune:

I regret so very much of my inability to be present to¬
night at the testimonial service. Owing to the illness of my
wife and other engagements prevent me and my wife from
being present. Even if 1 were present, I am mindful of how
inadequately would be my power of speech to give expres¬
sion to the profound esteem, worth, and nobility of character
I entertain for this good sister who hath been a faithful mem¬
ber and follower of our Lord Jesus Christ for 53 years and
a loyal teacher a trainer and instructor of the uninstructed
mind for 45 years, even though 1 should choose the best
words in my power and cloth them in the most choice lan¬
guage, at my command. We should appreciate the honor of
witnessing a testimony that may be given to the life and work
of Miss Nellie Arnold Plummer, the distinguished servant of
God in whose honor you meet tonight.

My attention was first directed to Miss Plummer more
than thirty years ago at the Second Baptist Church one second
Sunday after a communion service a voice from the rear of
the church said: Dr. Johnson, just a word! There was a
pause, and a lady with much eloquence fdled with the Holy
Ghost began to speak of Jesus and his love. Her words were
like a flame of lire within our hearts and when she had ar¬
rived at the pulpit, women were shouting, men clapping
their hands. There was almost a spiritual revolution in the
church. Some time later when I inquired of Dr. Johnson
who this lady was with so much spiritual power, he said it
was Miss Nellie Plummer. That impression has never left
me. As I observe her she is one process with shining quali¬
ties which are budded securely on the strong foundation of
substantial moral character and thorough reliability.

Her splendid personality commands the respect and ad¬
miration ot all those with whom she comes in contact. She
is indeed a true woman with fixed purposes, unflinching but
loyal. In my judgment no church ever had a truer member,
no cause a nobler champion, no principle a purer advocate

nov? riornov/ JiqJuij oil] J<; bovii

Ji biua ail .xowoq imjfrliqe iburn og ilJiw tun ybd zi H) orlw
tip $niu»U illiv/ ap.^rxnq ono gi ofte r>tl ?>VT$ado I aA

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

313

than she. To my mind she hath done her duty and did it
well in every sphere of work in which she has labored. She
impresses me as one process with line moral character, which
has appreciation for its relationship of its duty towards God.
By her example she teaches the way to the Saviour of souls.
She impresses me as one who hath within all these spiritual
forces that brings inward happiness, and are sustained and
guided with the strong arms of faith the eternal hope of the
soul, and a love which faileth not. As 1 observe her she is
committed to the great principles which are promulgated in
the gospel of the Son of God, and is the subject of His will.
Her endeavors seem to be to develop all that is purest, no¬
blest, and God-like, in the soul, knowing that these ut one
for the highest service. 1 could go on and multiply words
without numbers but would get no further. We should thank
God for such noble Christian characters and loyal followers
of the Lord Jesus Christ as Miss Nellie Arnold Plummer.
And when it is hers to lay down the cross and take up the
crown, those who know her best can truly say hers was a
Christian race well run, hers is a Christian work well done,
hers is a victor’s crown well won.

Rev. William A. Parker,

Pastor of the First Baptist Church,

Takoma Park, Md.

Very respectfully and cheerfully yours,

G. W. M. LUCAS,

Ex-Pastor.

r jrum, ftnhmh l>nu •(flirilttqm rriV *

314

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

CHAPTER XII

ST. PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH
Bladensburg, Md., 1876-1926

This story was written primarily to show how a Church
of God, the very Gates of Heaven to our souls, grew out of
the most severe trials and tribulations.

Our founders went “By Way of the Cross,” in poverty
and want, toiled and suffered and died that we, their children,
might inherit the “promise.” “0, Brethren, don’t you want
to go to the Gospel Feast — that ‘Promised Land’ where all
is Peace?”

The following table will show our illustrious pastors, all
good men save one:

8.
9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

Rev Ghauncey Leonard _

Rev. Augustus Watts _

Rev. Henry V. Plummer ...

Rev. Wm. M. Alexander _

Rev. Ferdinand G. Hall _

Rev. Broadus A. McDonald
Rev. Thomas P. Houston ...
Rev. Robert L. Simmons ...
Rev. George W. M. Lucas ..
Rev. Joseph S. L. Burke ....
Rev. Charles Cushinbcrry

Rev. George G. Mills . .

Rev. Hampton T. Gaskins ...
Rev. John T. Brooks _ _

1867-1871

1871-1876

1876-1881

1881-1883

1883-1894

1894-1896

1896- 1897

1897- 1899
1899-1905

1905- 1906

1906- 1915
1915-1917
1917-1926
1 926-

After Rev. Hauston left us in 1897, Rev. S. J. R. Nelson,
although duly clock'd pastor, served us not quite six months.
Ill health caused b in to give un. He was a graduate of
Howard, and quite a scholar. When it came to reasoning,
few ministers could equal him. He was preacher in charge
of Mount Hope Baptist Church. Charles County, Maryland,
in 1880, while I was teacher at Cross Roads. He had a large
interesting family. His children survive him in Washington,
D. C. 1 1 is wife was the sister of Mrs. Belle Mcbanc of Xor-
folk-Porlsmouth. Mrs. Nelson died in 1895, Fehruarv.

■

asei-v mr ...

wloonfl .1 fiiliiT. ,vofI .11

•Y} ujo»j wind.) ) tailfnH nqoll l ff uol/l 1o

.Ylurnri jifiiJjjoiQJni

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

315

Had Rev. and Mrs. Nelson been my own brother and
sister, we could not have respected each the other more than
we did. I lost a sister, when I lost Mrs. Nelson. They were
so cultured and refined.

“If only I may know the joy,

When nearing life’s journeys’ end.

Of clasping hands with those I love
As friend doth welcome friend;

If only 1 have learned to love,

When on death’s face I look;

If I only may see my name.

Inscribed in Friendship’s Book!”

OBITUARY

Howard’s Oldest Alumnus Passes Away

Enoch Homer Grasty, Howard Academy, 1872

Enoch Homer Grasfv. who enioved the distinction of be-
inu a member of the first class to graduate from Howard
Univorsi4v. died at his home in Culnenner County, Virginia,
on Thursdav. Jnnuarv 31. in his seven tv-eighth year. His
illness was brief and almost painless. He was laid to rest
in the familv plot, located not far from bis home, which nestles
among the beautiful Virginia bills which be loved so well.

As evidence of the high regard in which he was held as
educator, minister of the gospel, and a citizen of worth and
influence, his funeral, which occurred Sundav, February 3,
was attended bv apnroximatelv one thousand people, repre¬
senting cvcrv class, creed and color. In church, in school,
and in mmmunitv life. Mr. Orastv wielded a strong and whole¬
some influence with which he wrestled with the problems of
the education and social betterment of our group which bad
to be met in Virginia — now cyervwhere in the South — during
fhe neri’orl from 1875 to 1800. That he was highlv successful
in his efforts is attested bv the fact that be inspired scores of
vonng oroide to strive to higher achievement, was the beloved
nastor of two ehnrehes, and was bold in the highest esteem
as a counsellor bv all ids fellow-citizens.

tm bittv/oH fv>.mD lomoH rbontt

.orfiorl *irf inml urt (<in Imlc-wil lofo rliinnl ->i(| ni

-oifi 'i bftMtfftfli ->rrr, yliinmi/mmiR vrf hofirraljR

’ • "’lliniJH ft) ft

.OQHr r>| r.T^r mml Mhoo off*

316

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

His attachment to his Alma Mater was deep and vital.
His love for Howard grew with the years. It would be diffi¬
cult to find any one more highly surcharged with the Howard
spirit. As long as he was able to travel, no year passed by in
which he did not honor the University with a visit. He made
frequent contributions to the institution, always without solic¬
itation. The bread for the alumni dinner, during the com¬
mencement season, 1921, was made from a barrel of flour
which was milled from wheat produced on his farm and which
he so thoughtfully presented to the University for that purpose.

The editor, who as one of his pupils, found Mr. Grasty
a teacher of unusual charm, tact and inspiration, takes pleas¬
ure in reproducing the following discerning account of his
life, written by a member of the editorial staff of The Record,
which appeared in the commencement issue, June, 1921, under
the caption, “Howard Alumni You Ought to Know:”

“There is something fascinating about the pioneer. We
sit in rapt attention at the narration of one who witnessed
the beginnings of things. Such persons seem to speak with
authority because they saw and felt and heard those things
concerning the rest of us are informed only through tradition
or the written word. One of the editors of The Record had
the delightful experience recently of interviewing a man who
knew Howard University in its earliest days, who came under
the immediate influence of its devoted founders, who saw the
farm transformed into a university and who helped in that
transformation.

“Mr. Enoch Homer Grasty was born in Mt. Airv, Pittsvl-
vania County, Virginia, March 1, 1816. He was immediately
associated during his early life with General Coleman of the
Southern armies. On March 1, 1886, he was married to Miss
Fannie Davis of Frederick, Virginia, who had come to Dan¬
ville as part of the general migration from Northern Virginia
toward the South at the approaching collapse of the Con¬
federate armies. The wedding date was selected secretly in
honor of l lie inauguration of Abraham Lincoln, and the cere¬

mony was attended by General Coleman
guished officers of the Southern army.

and other distin-

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

317

“At the close of the war, he left Danville and came to
Washington seeking employment and to better his condition.
Realizing the need of an education in order to face the new
responsibilities, he dreamed of attending Wayland Seminary
during the spring of 1807. While engaged as superintendent
of the Sunday School of the Second Raptist Church, he met
a Miss Evans, a Christian philanthropist of Philadelphia, under
whose influence he decided to enter Howard University, then
in the process of organization. At that time, according to
Mr. Grastv’s own account, the main building had just been
erected, but still sat empty and unoccupied. Miner Hall was
in course of construction and Clark Hall had not yet been
begun. General Howard’s residence, now a dormitory of the
University, had just been completed and was occupied. The
medical building was still in course of construction.

“The first class assembled for instruction in Howard Uni¬
versity met in an old red frame building on what is now
Georgia Avenue, approximately one hundred yards southeast
of the corner of \V Street. Mr. Grasty assembled with that
class. According to his recollection, the class received its first
instruction from Professor A. L. Rarbcr, who was so inti¬
mately connected with the early history of Howard Univer¬
sity. Professor .1. M. Gregory, who for many years was
Professor of Latin in the University, was at that time a stu¬
dent-teacher, and from him Mr. Grasty received instruction
during those early days.

“The upper rooms of the original building served as dor¬
mitory accommodations for a large number of the young men
who attended the Universitv. Many of these earned a living
while going to school bv aiding in the work of clearing the
grounds of the Universitv. setting out trees, constructing
roads and in the general improvement of the landscape. Mr.
Grastv states that he brought with him. on entering the Uni¬
versity. no other credentials than a brand new nick and shovel,
with which he later dug in person one hundred and fifty holes
in which to set out trees now forming such an important
feature of the campus. The compensation was 18 cents for
each hole. When the main building was ready for occupancy,
Mr. Grasty was among the first group to receive instruction.

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318

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Miss Laud was the teacher of his class. Shortly thereafter
Miner Hall was completed and thrown open for the accom¬
modation of students. The young ladies occupied the south
end and the young men the north end of the building, pending
the completion of the hoys’ dormitory. When Clark Hall was
finished, Mr. Grasty was one of the pioneers of that long list
of Howard’s sons who as the years have gone by lived in that
historic old structure.

“After studying in the University for five years, Mr.
Grasty was graduated from the preparing course in May, 1872,
the exercises taking place in the old chapel at the west end
of the third floor of the main building. General 0. O. Howard
at that time being President of the University and conducting
the graduating exercises.

“On leaving the University, Mr. Grasty engaged in teach¬
ing first in Kent Countv, Md.* but after two vears returned to
his native state and took charge of the school in Culpepper
County, Virginia. For forty years he was engaged in the
work of education in that vicinity and was retired ten years
ago as a state pensioner.

“Howard University considers it a great honor that as a
result of this half century of service Mr. Grasty has received
the very highest official commendation for his professional
services and the highest expression of personal esteem from
the citizenry of the community where he has labored so long.
For in addition to teaching school he has been pastor of three
churches, thereby ministering to the spiritual as well as the
intellectual welfare of his contemporaries.”

Rev. Leonard received honorable*, mention November,
1925, by Prof. G. C. Wilkinson, at 19th Street Baptist Church,
as a teacher of persons of color in those early days. Being
very busy he only pastored us until we could find a minister.

Rev. Augustus Watts, who succeeded Rev. Leonard, was
a graduate, lie was a lovable character, being large and
heavy, a good man, and a good speaker. He left us for a
larger field. We remember Rev. Walls because lie was our
pastor when we lost mother, that 1 7 1 h day of January, 187G.

How the Lord has cared for us, disobedient though we
have been, lie has remembered mercy!

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

319

Moses and Jane Lucas were baptized in 1872, by Rev.
Augustus Watts, while we worshipped at the “Rabbitt Gum/’
Brother Watts did not know what worthy parents he was
starting on their way to heaven, nor what their large family
of children were destined to be — “Faith is ihe Victory.”

Rev. Henry Vinton Plummer became our pastor after
being our deacon, friend, advisor, and protector for ten years.
He was most industrious. He watched at the Government
Post Office, Washington, I). C. (alternating with Rev. Jas. L.
Jasper), studied at Wayland Seminary (on the spot where he
had been a slave, 1851-187)3), graduated in 1878, worked his
farm of 13 Ms acres on which he planted the choicest fruit
trees and bushes, grape-vines, etc., he and father digging the
ditches with their own hands. Still lie found time to pastor
our church, building it up as never before.

In May, 1876, he performed his first baptism. The can¬
didates were John H. Moss, Robert F. Plummer, Lizzie Addi-
son-Williams-Gant. and Julia V. Bumbry (the four of whom
“Sister Clark” speaks in her history). Brother Henry said:
“I will trv mv hand first on mv brother, Robert.” So, he
baptized him first. (Henry had taught Robert to swim). It
is impossible here to tell how the church grew and prospered
under his leadership. lie was all energy! A thought, a word,
an act! No minister was ever given up more reluctantly.
People came from miles and miles to worship with us.

In 1877, our pastor suggested that we not only be known
as the “First Baptist Church” in Bladensburg, Md., but that
our name should he “St. Paul's Baptist Church.” This he
did, being so enthused over theMeachings about St. Paul, the
Apostle, by Prof. G. M. P. King. Read “The Acts of the
Apostles” and St. Paul’s “Epistles” if you wo.uid know of the
danger, toils, and snares that the greatest human preacher
had to endure for Christianity’s sake, then to die! It was
St. Paul who remembered that Jesus said: “It is more blessed
to give than to receive,” Acts 20:85.

Now, Henry Plummer had just been released from that
terrible demon, the accursed American slavery, that had held
God’s children for two hundred fifty years, and so he could
sympathize with St. Paul.

320

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

As we study the New Testament today, we do not won¬
der at the young preacher’s enthusiasm. For what would
we do without the marvelous insight of St. Paul, added to,
and explaining the “Four Gospels?”

I am so proud of our name, for we must never cease to
strive for “Higher Ground,” if we would in the least be
worthy of our name. Long live the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Hcnrv Plummer suggested to the church that thov license
brothers Charles Tavlor (brother of .T. Anderson Tavlor of
Shiloh and Trinitv Baptist Churches. Washington. D. C.),
and Charles .Tnekson. that they might exhort us to good works,
when we could not get a minister.

Beginning with Piev. Plummer’s pastorate, the Mother
of our Church, “Sister Clark,” as she was then called, opened
a mission at Sitka, Montgomery County, Maryland (probably
8 or more miles away). She, with her praying band often
walked that distance, held prayer meeting, returned and did
a hard day’s work the next day. That mission became a
church in 1881. I visited Sitka, Sunday, July 11, 1926. What
memories! I could but exclaim: “Where is now the merry
party I remember long ago!” Our ministers from 1876 to
1900 gave us preaching two Sundays in a month, and Sitka
two Sundays. Our church of now can never know of the
sacrifices made then, that we might inherit now.

In 1873, before we moved on the hill where we are now,
fhe Parents of Rev. Emmett M. Burrell now of Takoma Park,
D. C.. were baptized in their old age bv Rev. A. Watts. In
1880, Rev. Burrell was baptized bv Rev. H. V. Plummer. The
Burrells then lived at Sitka. Md. Most all candidates from
Sitka were immersed at Bladensbnrg. It was the usual thing
to sec Rev. Rurrel! follow Rev. Hall into the pulpit. More
than seven years ago, Sitka called Rev. Burrell as pastor.
Through his efforts (lie church has been kept alive, although
fire destroyed their building as it did ours, and about the
same time. Rev. Burrell is a graduate of Howard Theologi¬
cal Department.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

321

Mills Beaman, who was baptized by Rev. John II. Brooks,
of Vermont Avenue Church, was married by Rev. II. V.
Plummer. (Brother Mills said lie was baptized at the 6th
Street Wharf, and had to ride in his wet clothes back to the
church before champing). Mr. and Mrs. Beaman are the
proud parents of Rev. Joseph X., Edward. William L., Prince
S., and Mary Beaman-Stewart. It was while Prince Stubbs, a
member of our church was helping at Sitka, while living
there, that Mr. and Mrs. Mills Beaman named their son “Prince
Stubbs.” Thomas Stewart. Isaac Adams, Mills Beaman, Wil¬
liam Lewis, the Burrells, the Berrys, and others were Sitka-
ifcs. Bladcnsburg Baptist Church is proud of her relation
to Sitka. Rev. Hall said of Isaac Adams, that he was a most
consistent Christian.

Sitka brought another blessing to her mother-church.
Throughout Montgomery County, rich persons like Hugh
McCulloch, the Jacksons, and the Hutchins were the support
of Sitka Church, bv the employment they gave to their help.

With McCulloch lived Frank and Ruth Cole, who came
into our church life, 1896 to 191 I. Mr. and Mrs. Cole were
baptized by Rev. Lucas, 1900, with thirty others. They joined
at Bladensburg, because it was just as convenient for them to
drive here, as to Sitka, for they had fine conveyances to carry
them anywhere.

After Rev. Lucas left us in 1905 for Cumberland, it is
hard to say what St. Paul’s Bantist Church could have done
without Frank Cole and his good wife, especially just before
and after the church building burned in 1907.

Once Mr. and Mrs. Cole took me on a Sabbath day’s
iournev to Manassas. Va„ to visit his relatives. There 1 met
his aunt. Mrs. Lucy Robinson. Mt\ and Mrs. Robinson had a
beautiful daughter, named Beulah, who married Mr. Sidney
.Tetter, Mr. and M~s. .Tetter had one little daughter. Mar¬
guerite. whom 1 named “Merrv-Simshine,** because of her
abundance of golden hair, and happv disposition, f know of
I)ii t one child who won mv heart more than did niv “Merrv-
Sunshine!” Miss .letter is now a Washington teacher. I
lost a true sister when Mrs. Cole passed away in 1909.

“Sister, thou wast mild and lovely,
Cen Me as the summer breeze.
Pleasant as the air of evening.
When it floats among the trees.”

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322

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

It was while on that visit that Sunday that I saw and
heard Rev. Wilbanks. His text was: “The Hand-writing on
the Wall.”

The winter that we lost Miranda and Henry was so ter¬
rible the country-folk could not attend their funerals. So
we held a memorial to the Glory of God, and in their mem¬
ory in June of the following summer (June 18, 1905). Their
friends came from everywhere ! Many came from Sitka.
One of whom I wish to quote. Brother William Lewis said:
“I love Brother Henry Plummer. He married us, and lie
baptized us. I love him in his grave.” I could but think
if lie loved our brother that much, how much ought we, his
family, and his church, love him — that is, the memory of his
good works, the sacrifices that he made that we might today
inherit !

Miss Nellie A. Plummer,
Kind Miss:

Washington, D. C.

April 22, 1927.

It is with pleasure that I drop you a copy of the family
letter that was read at Mr. William Ik Lewis' funeral at Sitka
Baptist Church, Sunday, April 10, at 2 o’clock.

“William II. Lewis was born on July 1, 1851, in Peters¬
burg, Virginia.

Died on April the 7. 1927, at his daughter’s residence, JO
East 132nd Street, New York City.

He leaves to mourn his loss, 1 daughters, one son, 6
grand children, and eleven great grand children.

“Ilis voice is hushed, his hands at rest
Life’s burden all laid down:

But over there his sweet reward,

A mansion and a crown.

Bv his Family.”

I hope this will find all your folks well, as this leaves me
well. Doping 1 shall have the pleasure of hearing from you
in the near future.

Yours truly,

(Rev.) Joseph X. Beaman,

907 Westminster Street N. W.

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TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

323

Our father, Adam Plummer, was a home-body. We de¬
pended upon Henry for all outside protection. How he loved
Edward Miner, R. C. Moss, Jesse Bumbry, Ferdinand Hall,
and all who were for progress.

Rev. Plummer resigned here to become pastor of Mt.
Carmel, Washington, D. C. Two years laier, 1883. he re¬
signed to become Chaplain in the 9th Cavalry of the United
States Army with Charles A. Young.

VETERANS TO ESCORT BODY OF COL. YOUNG
Plans Completed for Funeral of Colored Soldier

Friday, ?Jay 30, 1923

Arrangements arc now complete for the funeral of Col.
Charles Young on Friday. His body will arrive in Washing¬
ton tomorrow evening and be received bv a committee of
colored veterans. It will remain at Union Station until 11:30
a. m., when it will begin its final long journey to Arlington
Cemeterv.

During its sojourn at the station, the body will be in
charge of a guard of honor composed of colored veterans
who will serve in several reliefs. The floral offerings may be
sent to Union Station not later than 10 o’clock Friday morn¬
ing and received by a committee of veteran auxiliary mem¬
bers.

Friday the cortege will move out from Union Station,
sharp at 11 :30 a. m.

The troops composing the escort will be massed opposite
the cast entrance to the station. Veteran organizations will
form in the streets east of Union Station by 10:13. Unaffili-
ated veterans are expected to assemble on Union Station plaza
opposite east entrance at 10:30:

The route of the cortege will be from the Union Station
plaza to Delaware Avenue, Delaware Avenue south to I) Street,
D Street west to 1st Street, 1st Street south to Pennsylvania
Avenue, west along Pennsylvania Avenue to Georgetown, to
Key Bridge, to Fort Myer and Arlington.

The children of the colored public schools will be dis¬
missed in time to see the cortege. 0-1-1923.

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324

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

November 12, 192G.

COLORED CITIZENS HONOR MEMORY OF COL. YOUNG
Monument to Officer Is Dedicated at Arlington Under

Direction of Walker Legion Post.

A monument was dedicated to the late Col. Charles
Young, United States Armv, yesterday, scores of colored citi-
zens journeying to the grave in Arlington Cemetery, where
the program was under the direction of the James E. Walker
Post, American Legion.

Eulogistic addresses, paying tribute to the life and char¬
acter of Col. Young and calling attention to the fact that he
held the highest rank ever attained by a member of the colored
race in the Regular Army, were delivered by Maj. O. J. W<
Scott, retired, former Army Chaplain; Col. John T .Axton,
Chief of the Chaplains’ Corps, and Dr. Emmett J. Scott, sec¬
retary-treasurer of Howard University. The program served
the double purpose of according honor to Col. Young and
marking an appropriate observance of Armistice Day.

“Through the years of the future. Charles Young will be
recalled as the officer who made it possible, by his high char¬
acter, patriotism and devotion, for other men of his race to
achieve high station as officers of the United States Army,”
declared Dr. Scott, “and we shall only venture to hope that
the youth of his race may catch some portion of his undaunted
spirit.”

Col. Young’s son and other members of his family were
guests of honor at the ceremonies, which wen1 attended also
by Col. Benjamin (). Davis, Maj. John E. Green, Harry E.
Davis of Cleveland, member of the Ohio State Legislature,
and members of the Walker Legion Post. Lieut. Frank
Coleman, chairman of the Young Memorial Committee, pre¬
sided. 1 1

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

325

THIRTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY

Memorial to Founders, June IS, 1905

Hymn — Lead, Kindly Light.

Prayer.

Hymn — Jerusalem, My Happy Home.

Roll Call.

Hymn — Thou Judge of Quick and Dead.

Installation of Officers.
Remarks by President.

Solo —

Treasurer's Report.

Duett — Saved by Grace.

Add ress by Master of Ceremonies, Rev.
G. W. M. Lucas.

Song — Will There Re Any Stars? By the Choir.

Address — By Rev. Dr. W. .1. Howard.

Chorus — When I Get Home — Rv Choir, Children and Con¬
gregation.

Address — Rv Rev. Dr. W. Bishop Johnson.

Song — The Beautiful Bevond. Choir.

Add ress — By Rev. Dr. W. M. Alexander.

Song — Mv Mother's Praver. Choir.

Annual Offering.

Chorus — No Dark Valley.

Solo — Sleep Sweet Within.

Good-Bye! God Bless You.

Few cxtempor remarks by distinguished guests present.
Recitation — Miss Eliza Wheeler —

Alabaster Box. Resurgemus.

Closing Remarks, Etc.

Closing Chorus —Looking This Way.
Benediction.

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320 '

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OR

Born February 2G. 1842 — Died March 4, 1905

To the Glory of God and in Loving Memory of
SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER CLARK

Founder of Bladcnsburg Baptist Church, October, 18G6
Born July 30, 1844 — Died February 10, 1905

To the Glory of God and in Loving Memory of
HENRY VINTON PLUMMER
Founder of the Union in 1870
The Union Association of Bladcnsburg and
First Baptist Church cordially invite you
to be present at their
TIIIRTY-FIFTI I ANNIVERSARY
which will be a Memorial to their Founders,

H. V. PLUMMER and S. M. P. CLARK
on Sunday, June 18, 1905, at 2 o’clock P. M.

First Baptist Church, Bladcnsburg, Md.

He is known all over the United States as it were for his
great work with the Lott Carey Home and Foreign Mission
Society!, as well as one of the most successful pastors of
Baltimore.

Rev. Wm. M. Alexander of Baltimore, was a student at
Wayland Seminary, from which he graduated in 1882. While
a student there, he pastured us. After graduating, he went
to Baltimore, but oreached for us until 1883. when he resigned
for the field in Baltimore, where he was to become a great
and influential man, not only in Baltimore, but in many cities
besides. I cannot now tell how many thousands were at his
funeral at Sharon Baptist Church. As Cod gave him strength
to rise above the world, lie never forgot Wayland, and he
never forgot the church at Bladcnsburg his first charge.
•This, however, would not he complete, if 1 did not speak of
Mrs. Ellen Alexander, his good wife. They were two beauti¬
ful people, beautiful physically, and beautiful, beautiful char¬
acters. It has been my great privilege to visit them in their
home, a home of prayer.

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TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

327

Rev. Ferdinand Gustavus Hall was also a Wayland grad¬
uate. Had he been in good health, he would have probably
been our pastor from 1 870 until his death (December 25,
1899). He so studied his case that be scarcely needed a doc¬
tor. Still there were times when he dared not leave his house.
Not withstanding this terrible handicap, few, if any ministers,
excelled him in work. He taught the public school at Bla-
densburg for years. He was a pastor, indeed. He loved all.
especially the children. He visited the sick and cared for
all. The Rlaclcnsburg Union owe all their rules and regula¬
tions to him. No minister was ever more welcome at Sitka
Church than he. Dr. King prized him as a grammarian. He
always had a thought for us, whether in the pulpit, the Sun¬
day School or the day school. After II. V. Plummer left in
1881, he had to lead the men politically, because so few
could read and write.

He held a political position in Baltimore for four years —
going and returning each day, during President Harrison's
administration. He owned two acres of ground (on the Cole-
ville road), on which he had built a neat little house.

Our church clerk, Sarah Miranda Plummer-Johnson,
loves to state that she was one of Rev. Hall's pupils. She
was also one of forty that he baptized in May. 188b. He was
so appreciative of the least help given to the cause of the
Master, whether here or at Sitka.

We were, indeed, bowed down in sorrow that Christmas
morning when he went to be forever with the Lord. He went
as the angels were singing for jov at the birth of Christ.
As we lamented over the fact of his passing, our Father said:
“He is no ? dead. He is not alone. God shall watch his very
dust, till He shad bid it rise.” Thus passed a leader, teacher,
pastor, friend, and brother, indeed. There was much evil
surrounding F. G. Had in his childhood and Youth. But none
over swerved him from the right, proving that God puts His
Spirit in whom He chooses. He was most particular in ins
manners and dress and npnearnnec. A sister, Mrs. Anna
Ruth Ilah-Rrudlev. and two daughters. Mrs. Fannie llall-Ran-
dall, and Mrs. Nellie. Ada ms- Lancaster, still survive him. He
had other brothers also. Mrs. Bradley and Rev. Hall loved
each other dearly. Even now after twenty-six years, she
calls Fannie, then comes for me, and we make our way by
auto to Fairview eemeterv, and sister, daughter and friend

7 Ol

328

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

meet in memory of him who loved us. Mrs. Bradley’s home,
412 U Street X. W., Washington, 1). C., is extra beautiful,
where she lives, as do her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and
Mrs. Monroe.

If Miss Fannie Hall were my own child, I don’t see how
she could he more loving, kind, and considerate of my sister,
Julia, and me.

In 1<874, Rev. Hall married Miss Sarah Elizabeth Scott,
the second daughter of Lorenzo and Fannie Scott of River-
dale. Two sons and two daughters were born to them. Mrs.
Fannie Scott and Mrs. Anne Hodge were our mother’s bride’s-
maids. Her son, Alexander Scott, was marshal for the Union
for years and years, being a particular friend of Saunders
Plummer. Of all that large familv of Scotts, Mrs. Elbertine
(Teny) Scolt-Parker, is the only survivor. At the time of his
death. Rev. Hall was conducting a grocery store with which to
help support himself and family.

Over and above all we can hear Rev. Hall singing “Close
to Thee,” “Thou my ever-lasting portion. More than friend
or life to me. Gladly will 1 toil and suffer, Only let me wTalk
with Thee, Close to Thee.”

We are loath to close this character, knowing what he
was to church, state, community, and home. (Psalms 37:37),
“Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end
of that man is peace.”

Outline of Sermon — 1893 — F. G. Hall:

Peculiar Promise Fulfilled. To March Straight. Etc. Jos. 6:5.

(a) God’s full knowledge of the work which lie gives to His
people to do.

(b) l nqualitied obedience necessary to the accomplishment
of the work.

(c) Hardships to be endured— Long Marches — Tent Life-
Far from home and friends Danger and death facing
them. Friends may turn their backs upon you. but if
Jesus is your friend, all will be well. Life and Death.

(d) Brilliant Victory — Complete. Phil. 1:13 — “I can do all
things through Jesus Christ which strengtheneth me.”
The heart a ,h 'rico, and .Sin a wall.

(e) Lasting Honors.

(t) The Immortalized Leader.

“For unto yon is born this day in the city of David a Savior
which is Christ the Lord.”

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

329

AGAIN

Bladcnsburg Baptist Sunday School
Invite their Many Friends to Join in their

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Sunday Morning. December 24. 1899.

There will he Preaching. In the Evening at 7:30 o’clock a

SACRED CONCERT

will he given hv the School. Admission Free. All are Invited.

THE USUAL CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT

will take place

Wednesday, December 27, 1899, at 7 P. M.

A Varied Programme will he given. Plenty of Refreshments.
December 27, 1899, Rev. Hall’s Funeral Day.

Mr. G eo. G. Mills, Superintendent;

Rev. G. \V. Lucas, Minister in Charge.

Admission 10 Cents.

Rev. Hall died at 4 o’clock. Monday morning (Xmas Day).

The above “Entertainment” never took place, for Wed¬
nesday, December 27, 1899, was the funeral day of our friend
and brother. Rev. F. G. Hall. Sermon by Rev. Alexander.

Though dead, yet he speaks through Rev. J. N. Beaman,
whom lie baptized.

SERMON BY REV. JOSEPH N. BEAMAN

ENTITLED

SONGS OF JOY AND PRAISES TO GOD
Delivered in Commemoration of the Laying of the Corner¬
stone at Bladcnsburg, Maryland.

TEXT

“When the builders laid the foundation of the Temple of
the Lord, they set the priest in their apparel with trumpets,
and levites the sons of Asaph with symbols, to praise the
Lord, after the ordinances of David, King of Israel.” Ezra.

Ill :X.

Dear Christians and Friends:

Indeed it affords me a very great pleasure to be present
this morning and to speak words of cheer and consolation and
endeavor to inspire you to push forward the great cause of
Christ.

k ol rwanolq inoia yw? n om ti boobiil

330

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

I deem it a very high honor to He privileged to preach t He
initiatory sermon on this memorable occasion, the laying of
the corner stone of the First Baptist Church in the old his¬
toric town of Bladcnsburg, Maryland, which has been and is
now standing high in the scale of churches. In view of this
fact and there are so many able divines in the city of Wash¬
ington and Baltimore and elsewhere, who would consider it
an honor to preach to you on this occasion. But, however,
I am glad that the blessed Lord has put it in your hearts that
I should be the preacher.

I now invite your attention to my theme “Songs of Joy
and Praises to God/' The basic thought of my subject is
deduced from the text: “When the Builders laid the founda¬
tion of the temple of the Lord, they set the Priest in their
apparel with trumpets, and Levitcs the sons of Asaph with
symbols, to praise the Lord, after the ordinances of David
King of Israel." Ezra 111:10.

In the winter of 1901, the month of February, a great
fire broke out in the city of Baltimore, and for several days,
the destruction of the whole city was threatened by the angry
flames of that tire, hundreds of buildings were guttered and
consumed in t lie llamcs, thousands of people turned out of
shelter, millions of dollars worth of property destroyed and
the excitement wrought to the highest pitch. Oh! what an
awful sight! It is beyond expression. The people in the
whole stale of Maryland sympathized with the sufferers of
the fire, in fact the people of the whole country shared their
sad condition.

Oh! after the destructive fire had abated, the debris had
been removed, the traffic became normal, and the burden of
fear from the hearts of the people had been lifted, O, what
joy and happiness the people of Baltimore experienced.

And so it was after seventy years of captivity in Babylon,
a very small portion of (he children of Die children of Judah
returned to Jerusalem, the holy citv, that once beautiful cilv
of Zion, with it's nrumincent edifice of worship, the sacred
and sublime temn’e of Sohmion. the most splendid and costly
building in the hislorv of the world, built out of the best
parian marble and many parts of il were decorated and lined
with pure gold and adorned with most precious diamonds; and
it’s curious workmanship was extremely exquisite, and cal¬
culated to excite the wonder and admiration of all succeed-

i;V ilorlv/

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

331

in# ages. This temple was erected to the true and living God
and dedicated to the memory of all his true followers, Enoch,
Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, David,
and all his prophets and holy men of God, and as a reminder
of God’s ever glorious display of his sovereign goodness and
providence over all his creatures.

The cause of the caotivitv was disobedience. After the

4 v

death of Solomon, the children of Israel disagreed and di¬
vided into two parts. The house of Judah and Benjamin
under Rchoboam, Solomon’s son, the other ten tribes under
Jeroboam.

The nation became very wicked under Ahaz, Manasseh
and Anion and others. But God had continually warned the
people by his holy prophets through Josiah and others but
they would not listen and continue in his services, but forsook
his statutes, disobeyed his commands, departed from his ways,
broke down his alters, and even slew his prophets and turned
to and was finally carried away with idols. So God sent
the armies of the Chaldeans. Syreans, Moabites. Ammorites
to fight against them, and they conquered the children of
Judah and took them in captivity to Babylon more than a
thousand miles away which meant months of travel with
hardship and foot sores, etc.

On their return to Palestine, thev were sadly surprised
and disappointed to find the beautiful fields and thriving
farms in desolation, the beautiful citv of Jerusalem in de¬
struction and the sacred Temple of Solomon in charred ruins
and the great walls, long since crumbled in ruins and dust
with the appearance of a ridge of mounds covered with grass
and shrubbery constituting a great harbor for foxes and other
small animaks. and the lands deserted of inhabitants of the
people of Judah.

It looked as if a great cyclone had swept over the whole
country leaving all the land in a state of horror, devastation
and ruin, and followed bv mnnv vears of draught causing
the fields of the hill country to become parched and fruitless
of rich luxuriant vegetation and giving the appearance of
hardship and starvation. This terrible state of alTairs was
caused by the great sun and destruction of foreign wars that
finally won the victory over the people of Judah and carried
them as captives in captivity of Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon
and there remained for sevenlv vears. It was not an actual

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332

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

slavery but Colonists destitute of a Temple until the pro¬
phetic declaration had been fulfilled in the overthrow of the
kingdom of Babylon by the powers of the Medes and Persia
under King Cyrus according to the prophecy of Isaiah 200
years before. Isa. 44 ch 28, and also Jeremiah 25ch 12, just
before entering captivity.

When they arrived at the old seat of government, the
once magnificent and sublime Temple, Oh, how sad! But
they did not give up in despair, but the whole host of people
said: “Let us rise up and build.” Nell. 2:18.

They went to work in deep earnestness and contributed
their silver, their gold, their wealth, their means, and their
labor in clearing away the rubbish and excavating for the
laying of the foundation for the rebuilding of the Temple of
Zerubbabcl, or the second Temple.

And when they had laid the foundation of the building,
they came together and with, all their glorious array of priestly
robes and instruments of praise and service, their aides in
the uniform of their office and large representatives of the
42,000 people that remained and returned praising God in
the highest and rejoicing in the Lord of their salvation for
the deliverance out of the captivity of Babylon as expressed
in the text.

See how they are singing songs of joy and adoration and
praise, (Psa. 103:1.) Xo doubt they are singing 103th Psalm
of David (he sweet singer of Israel “0 I give thanks unto the
Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the
people. Sing unto him. sing Psalms unto him. talk ye of all
his wondrous works, glory ve in his holv name; for he is
good, for his mercy endureth forever toward Israel.”

All the people shouted with a great shout as they praised
the Lord, because the foundation of the Temple was laid.
But many of the Priests, Levites and elders of the people who
had seen the first house, when they saw the foundation of
the Temple laid, a panoramic scene passed before their minds
that they could see the transpiration of their early childhood,
and behold the former Temple with all it's splendors and
glory, they could see their fathers and mothers, brothers and
sisters and friends serving God in that Temple in the beauty
of holiness. Oh the scenes of the past were so vivified to
such an extent that they broke down and wept bitterly and
cried with loud voice. So that the people could not discern

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.THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

333

the noise from the loud shout of joy and praise from the
loud weeping of sorrow. This outburst of joy and sorrow
could he heard afar otf.

Our blessed Lord Jesus said on one occasion: “The hour
cometh when you shall not worship the Father in this moun¬
tain or at Jerusalem, hut the hour cometh and is now that
you shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth, but tie
also said where two or three assembled in His name he would
be in their midst and bless them.

We have assembled here today to praise God and to
shout for joy for the victory won so far. On this occasion
we are to perform the ceremony of laying the corner stone
symbolizing the completion of the foundation of the second
Temple of the First Baptist Church of Bladcnsburg, Mary¬
land.

And lo, about eleven months ago we were struck with the
sad intelligence that the First Baptist Church of Bladcnsburg
was burned and oh how heavy it made our hearts feel to learn
of the distressing news, and our minds ran back more than
twenty years ago. We could remember the fact of how our
fathers and mothers worshipped here, brothers and sisters
praised the Lord here, and friends rejoiced in (lie God of their
salvation here, and many of our sons and daughters were
given in marriage, and united in wedlock here, and it was here
that many of us took the last sad look on many of our be¬
loved ones.

It may not he amiss for me to mention a few of them
on this occasion, who have labored so ardently in the upbuild¬
ing of this moral vineyard: Rev. F. G. Hall. Rev. Henry Plum¬
mer, Deacon Redd, Sister Miranda Clarke Plummer, the
mother and founder of the church, sister Bumbry. Richard
Holland, Rev. Wm. M. Alexander, Deacon Jesse Bumbry, Sis¬
ter Annie Davis, Sister Sarah Alexander-Malthews, Brother
and Sister Moses Lucas, Brother and Sister Stephen Bailey,
Prof. G. M. P. King, my own father. Mills Beaman, and
others.

Paul said Romans 12-1-15 2 Cor. 10:1-17. Many of us
were lukewarm, indifferent, selfish and cold when that ter¬
rible calamity struck our temple, so that we were stirred to
the very depths of our hearts and we were called to a sense
of duty. So we began to look around ourselves, and call on

331

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

the name of our God to help us and to teach us to perform
our duty to him and our fellow men and to our selves, how
to pray a heartfelt and sincere prayer.

Some of us had been like the children of Judah, our
minds prone to wonder and to follow idolitry and carried
away with the little no harm things of life, such as dancing,
games and even backbiting our neighbors, saying all kinds of
things and doing all kinds of acts unbecoming us as Chris¬
tians. The Savior said that if you find your brother in fault
go to him alone and tell him of it — in the midst of his good¬
ness some of us have forgotten God, hut:

God works in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform.

He plants his footsteps in the sea;
And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill;

He treasures up his bright designs.
And works his sovereign will.

We who arc consistently faithful not only consistently
but persistently faithful to the trust reposed in us to perform
our Christian duty, thought it hard to have our church edi¬
fice burned, indeed the whole community felt the shock and
sympathized with us in our awful sorrow; and as evidence
of the fact we have been able to secure the means and have
laid the foundation and will push it on to completion in the
very near future.

We must remember that whatever God docs, he does it
for the best. Permit me to quote the words of the writer to
the Hebrews. “Mv son, despise not thou the chastening of
the Lord.” “For whom the Lord loveth, he chastenetli.”
And again God says in his holy word we know that all things
work for the good of them that love God.

During this period of our downfall, we have had a visi¬
tation of the Holy Spirit with special power. 1, for one, can
testify to the truth on the first Sunday of last September 1
had the good fortune and pleasure to be present, the occasion
seemed to have been a reunion of several members of the
church living at a distance. 1 can truly say that the Holy
Spirit certainly did overshadow that meeting, men and wo¬
men talked spontaneously as they had not talked for a long

*' ” j *>r ‘ W«»il i) lli<J i u ; i « vj 5) *]fjo

.finnJixj oj rrelwow «il£

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

335

time. It was a warmer meeting than I had ever experienced
around Washington. I tell you that it was a great meeting.

Rut today we are here to rejoice and to praise the Lord
as the people of Judah praised God with a great shout. But
there are some here as the elders had been, whose minds go
back to the old building when it stood in i Us grandeur and
glory. You arc sad to remember the scene of the happiness
that appeared there when you were received in church, made
your vows to stand up for Christ and his righteousness, the
marriages of your families performed, the last sad look upon
the persons of your loved ones. The picture of those scenes
is brought so vividly to the mind that we are compelled to
shed tears in spite of this great demonstration.

Guide me, Oh thou great Jehovah,

Pilgrims through this barren land;

I am weak, hilt thou art mighty,

Hold me with thou powerful hand.

Bread of heaven; feed me now, and ever more.

The history of this church is synonimous with the history
of our race since emancipation. When the great civil war
had closed, the tires of passion of the contending forces of
the two sections of our country had quenched, the roar of
cannons had ceased, the smoke of battle had died away, vic¬
tory won and the cause of right triumphed. The slave was
liberated, three millions and a half strong, though turned
out with nothing, no shelter, raiment or food, standing on
nothing but the green carpet of God's given earth, and
sheltered with the blue canopy of the starry heavens. And
the soldiers returned to their homes and received the happy
greetings of dear husband, father and son.

Just about that time, nearly forty-one years ago, the First
Baptist Church of Bladensburg was launched on the tem¬
pestuous sea of time, to combat with the waves of sin, shame
and degradation. Though few in number, with the late sister
Sarah Miranda Plummer Howard Clark at the helm. And
she has continued to sail over the billows of the sea of time
and kept pace with the unequaled progress of 1 1 le race; and
today she stands out equal with the most foremost peers of
the whole denomination. She has had and now has in her
fold some of the most intelligent and aide men and women the
race has ever produced and many of them have gone far and
wide and thus have spread her influence to the world.

Ihig irwHn't .hijadztiA icoii lo ayitilonji

336

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

She stands as a great city on an exceedingly high moun¬
tain and her light can he seen afar 01T. Dear Christians, let
us emulate the noble deeds of the fathers and mothers of our
church, and continue to hold up the high standard of the
gospel that was set up by our blessed Lord Jesus and held up

by our fathers.

When the builders laid the foundation of the Temple of
the Lord, they set the priests in their apparel with trumpets,
and Levites the sons of Asaph with symhalls to praise the
Lord, after the ordinance of David King of Israel. And may
we ever apply the sentiment of the text to our hearts, praise
the Lord, he is good, for he endureth forever.

Let me admonish you to ever keep your eyes upon the
Lamb of God. who takcth away the sin of the world, the
root and branch of David, the mighty God, the everlasting
father, the rose of Sharon, the fairest among ten thousand,
altogether lovely, t lie king of kings, and the Lord of Lords,
the Prince of Peace, and the bright and Morning Star.

There is a star that beams on earth. With gentle and
lovely ray; It sheds it's light on the path of generous worth
and speaks A brighter day, it is friendship.

There is a tie, a golden chain.

That binds witli stronger hand.

Than the iron shackles of the cell,

Or all the arts of man.

It is love

There is a gem, a pearl of worth,

As lasting as the skies.

More dazzling than the gems of earth.

It’s splendors never die.

It is truth.

Three angels spirits ever more.

They guard our thorny way.

And those who follow where they lead
Can never go astray.

For God has given them a like
To childhood and to youth;

And ago is mellowed by the touch
Of friendship, love and truth.

•Mil bushl gi |j t{fl|> villain] J. >Ai»q'e bnc

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

337

THE DEDICATION OF THE MEMORIAL WINDOWS

of the

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENSBURG, MD., St. Paul’s

REV. J. N. BEAMAN
Windows to be dedicated:

1. Sarah Miranda Plummer, Founder.

2. Rev. Henry V. Plummer. Deacon-Pastor.

3. Rev. F. G. Hall, Pastor.

4. Edward Miner, Deacon.

5. Reuben C. Moss, Deacon.

6. Jesse Bumbry and Wife, Deacon.

7. Sharon Baptist Church, Baltimore.

8. Second Baptist Church, Washington— Our Mother.

9. Richard Holland, Deacon.

The Dedication of the Memorial Windows at St. Paul’s Baptist
Church, Bladensburg, Md., By Rev. J. N. Beaman.

“Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in
the ears of Joshua.” Exodus xvii:ll.

It is with profound awe and veneration that I rise before
you on this memorial occasion with the First Baptist Church
of Bladcnsburg, Md., to express my sincere and heartfelt
feelings, and pay tribute of respect to the honor and memory
of the lives and distinguished services of many of its pillars,
struggles, and its successes in advancing the Kingdom of God
in this moral vineyard.

It was here that I was immersed in the liquid stream in
the name of the Father. Son, and Holy Ghost, by one of your
most favored sons, in the person of the distinguished, lament¬
ed Rev. Dr. F. G. Hall.

You are here to dedicate these windows in memory of
the men and women, who have given the best of their lives
to the cause of this church, and whose names you have seen
fit to engrave upon those panes of glass as a reminder and an
honor of their great deeds and noble virtues.

But these are only a few of the long list of names in¬
scribed on the tablets of our hearts and shrouded in loving
memory.

These unseen names would be visible on yonder glass,
if it were not for want of space.

UniorujYbfi ni Eoaao )osu *li bnn Eol&flinla

338

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

The Church

I deem it fitting to sav a word relative to the history of
the church, which was organized in the days of reconstruc¬
tion, when the smoke of battle had just blown away, and the
great Civil strife and conflict between the North and South,
which cost this nation hundreds of thousands of precious lives,
and millions of dollars in property and worth.

When we, as a race, had just emerged out of slavery
with all of the marks of horrors and tortures afflicted upon
us, having had the shackles and fetters of the chains of the
bondage of slavery broken asunder, and we were set at liberty;
we were more than half a million strong; set free with no
where to lay our heads in the wide, wide world; no shelter,
raiment or food, standing upon the green carpet of God’s
earth and sheltered with the canopy of the starry heavens.

Today, we number more than ten million souls on the
American soil.

Since that time, you have seen a remarkable change.
You have seen men of our race occupy every position in the
walks of life, from legislatures of the States to the halls of
Congress of the United States; in fact every profession and
trade known to the science of the civilized and enlightened
world, from the wage earner to the financier and banker.

A few persons who had by divine grace embraced the
religion of our Lord Jesus Christ, united by covenant in the
faith and fellowship of the gospel to walk under the banner
of the Raptist Church under the influence of the late venerable
Sister, Sarah Miranda Plummer-IIoward-Clark, who was a
most devout Christian and was full of the fire of the llolv
Ghost and who was a mother in the Gospel accomplishing
great work in this community.

This church having started from a small beginning lias
accomplished a great and grand and noble work in advancing
our Lord's Kingdom in this community, and has established
a flourishing branch, now Sitka Raptist Church.

This church has produced quite a number of distin¬
guished lives and Christian characters of noble men and
women, many of whom have gone to their reward; among

' ' • ! 'll ■ •; , .......

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

339

whom I might mention some of the worthiest names: Deacon
Reuben Moss, Redd. Sister Clark. Sister Bumbry, the late
Rev. Henry Plummer, Deacon Holland, Sister Moss, Prof.
John Harvey Wigginston, and many others that time will
not permit me to mention. And last, hut not least, is the life
and character of the lamented Rev. Dr. F. G. Hall.

His Deportment

I was very intimately acquainted with him for quite a
number of years.

Many pleasant hours of chat have I had with him. He
was such a large, full, rounded Christian gentleman, and so
full of spirit. In short, lie was a very loving man. No one
ever knew him but to love him, let it be in the road, in the
street, or in the house, he always had a word of cheer and
consolation and would always ask the question. How are you
getting along spiritualty, and is it well with your soul?

Politically, he was a public spirited citizen. One who
took an active part in advocating, supporting and maintaining
righteous laws and the customs which tend towards the wel¬
fare of the community in which he lived.

He was a great lover of his State and was loval to his
country.

Socially, he was a lovelv man. He was an admirer of the
society of his fellows; congenial and conversant, so that men
always loved to he in his company. He was a splendid
neighbor, a loving father and an atVectionate husband.

Religiously, be was an earnest, clear-headed and con¬
sistent and persistent Christian. For him to enter the sick
room was sunshine; for he carried its rays wherever he went.
His cheering, consoling and sympathetic words lifted up the
down-cast and revived the low spirited. He was a lighted
lamp carried into a dark room dispelling the blackness and
gloom thereof. So it was ever with F. G. Hall. He was a
man of great patience, fortitude and faith. He told me on one
occasion, when he was very sick, and not expected to live,
while standing beside his bed: “Brother Joe, 1 tell you, if
it was not for the religion of our Lord Jesus Christ, I could
not stand it.” I then could not see through it, but now I can,
because God has brought me along the same path. I know
what it is to have the spirit of God with me in the hour of
illness, and can truthfully say that to have faith in God is
the greatest thing on earth.

i <>I nil 9 yovvv n Imu |jiu«j-nwob

MU i -liw xi») it) liiicfa ‘ji(| avt;;l pj ; • li )i;rlv/

340

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR
His Ability

He was an eloquent, able, and impressive preacher. A
logical talker and an instructive lecturer. He was a public-
spirited man in every sense of the word.

I can not refer to him without feeling very sorry from
the depths of my heart that the church and this community
have lost such an able and qualified man in every respect.
His place can never be filled for decades to come; but his
memory shall still remain with us for ages, and the influence
of his noble life and character shall stand as a monument as
long as the sun moves from the eastern horizon to the west¬
ern hills. The name of F. G. Hall shall go down in history
and be inscribed in the hearts of the people of this commun¬
ity, and shall be an incentive to the incoming and unborn
posterity.

Memorials

I do not deem it out of place to mention the names now
living, who arc engraved upon those panes of glass.

The first name I shall refer to is one who was a foremost
and active member in the early history of the Second Baptist
Church, Washington, D. C., the mother of this church. He
remained there until he was forced for the love of freedom
and liberty, and in order to secure such for himself and wife,
he went to Canada.

Several years after the Civil War, he returned from
Canada with his familv and cast his lot with us, and became
one of our leading citizens; and an active and aggressive mem¬
ber of this church.

As chorister, he led the choir for many years. He was
also elected a deacon in the early history of the church, and
has remained in that sublime office ever since. His efforts
and personal influence have been a large force toward the
uplift and prosperity of the community, as well as his exem¬
plary Christian life, which has raised t lie life of the church to
a high standard. Therefore, for his long and faithful service
in the church and for his peaceful and progressive citizen¬
ship in the community, we revere and venerate his name as
Honorable Jesse Bumbry.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

341

The next to whom I shall refer is one who held the pas¬
torate here about thirty years ago. Under his earnest plead¬
ings, eloquence and supervision, the work largely increased;
and under his care the flourishing mission at Sitka, Mont¬
gomery County, was established whose great influence still
lives, not only here, but throughout the entire country as a
great preacher. It is with profound earnestness that we cher¬
ish in our affection, and reverence the name of Dr. William
Alexander.

The next is one who has faithfully and devoutly come
in and out among us weekly, for the last two or three years;
whose energetic and untiring efl’orts have largely contributed
to the forces that made it possible for us to stand in the midst
of these sacred walls of this edifice, and gaze upon its artistic
decorations in the name of the blessed Lord Jesus Christ,
our Savior. 1 refer to our honored pastor, Rev. Charles
Cushinberry.

The next is one who has grown up in our midst from her
birth. “She has become as a cornerstone polished after the
similitude of a palace,” Whom you all honor, cherish and
love. She has contributed the larger portion to the forces
that have made this beautiful edifice a reality, and her strong
character has stamped its personality upon this community.
One can not stop one of her pupils, whether of the Sunday
School or Day School, without seeing the reflection of her
noble personality. You know to whom I have referred, as
you have failed to engrave her name on yonder glass, mod¬
esty forbids me to mention her name — (Miss Nellie A. Plum¬
mer).

The last, but not the least, is one whom I will liken to
an acorn dropped in the forest. It sprouts and comes up; a
small bush is seen, and continues to grow until it becomes a
mighty and stalwart oak. Its trunk has developed in broad¬
ness, and has reached such a height that its topmost branches
towers above all other trees in the forest. So it was with the
young man who used to come from Wayland Seminary here
to preach in your early history, whom some of you used to
call the “hoy” preacher. He has become a great man. His
massive mind has expanded more than most men’s; his elo-

342

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

quencc lias developed to one of the greatest pulpit orators;
and his earnestness has been transformed into a mighty
preacher until, today, he has a national reputation far above
the average public man of note. He is acknowledged hv great
scholars, and theologians, as a scholar, an orator, and an au¬
thor; one of the few great preachers of the race, and one of
the greatest divines of the world, regardless of race. He has
stamped his great personality upon the whole Baptist de¬
nomination. This distinguished elder.' to whom I refer is
none other than the Rev. Dr. William Bishop Johnson, LL. D.

The Struggle of the Church

Dear Christian friends, you have known the struggles of
this church, how she came along amid the manv trials and
tribulations and finally succeeded in lifting up the standard
of the community.

The calamity that befell her, God in his divine Provi¬
dence knows for what cause: “Whom God lovest He chas-

teneth.”

Dear friends, you have known the struggles that our
people as a race have undergone amid the manifold opposi¬
tions, drawbacks, yet God is with us and will raise up many
friends to aid us in all praiseworthy undertakings; such as
Justice Brewer and Mr. Carnegie, the multi-millionaire, who
have spoken very favorably of us.

As a whole, we have made the greatest progress that has
ever marked the history of any people in the world’s history,
within the same period of time and under such adverse cir¬
cumstances.

Now in conclusion, I will say a few words to the young
people whose faces are marked with ardor and vigor of youth,
and whose prospects are r.s bright as the dawn of a beauti¬
ful spring morning with all of its beauty and array.

Ton should be pleased with the history of our race for
the past forty vears and should be encouraged to endeavor to
continue to advance the conditions of the race to a grander
and high plane of civilization, national prosperity, and the
preservance of the rights of citizenship; for it requires every
man, woman and child to solve the so-called race problem.

'oTOryi'JhrH »y ri ox i n ?.a olcjoeq

Jo viola id or!} b&sliftin ioyo

« d ti. *niamq oaorT* !>nn

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

343

Ah! my dear friends, it can only be done by obeying the
precious rules of action of the Old Book of Books, the Word
of God, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth!”

And being true followers of the Son of the living God, the
Lion of Judah, the root of David, Rose of Sharon, the Lily ot
the Valley, the Bright and Morning Star, the Prince of Peace.

And let every person inscribe these blessed words in their
hearts: “Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it,
in the ears” of your children.

MISS LORETTA SIMMS.

°f Orphans’ Home.

344

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

THE DEDICATION OF THE MEMORIAL WINDOWS

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, BLADENSBURG, MD.

By Rev. J. N. Beaman

“Rev. William Alexander, D. D., organized the Sitka Bap¬
tist Church in Rev. J. N. Beaman’s father’s home, Montgom¬
ery County, Maryland, thirty-three years ago, which became
a flourishing church.

Rev. Beaman was baptized the first Sunday in Septem¬
ber, 1888, by the late Rev. F. G. Hall, and the baptismal ser¬
mon was preached by Rev. Dr. Alexander, who was ex-pastor
of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md.”

Newspaper Clipping, Maryland Voice, May 23, 1914.

THE POWER OF THE CHURCH, OR SOME OF THE

DUTIES OF MINISTERS AND DEACONS

Text. “Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves, and
to all the Hock, over which the Holy Ghost has made
you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has
purchased with his own blood. — Acts XX:28.

Brother Moderator, Associate Pastors, Ministers,
Fellow Deacons, Christians, and Friends:

I deem it great honor to have the privilege and pleasure
to preach to the Ministers and Deacons’ Union of Northern
Virginia.

1 bring you a message from the Lord, our blessed Savior,
“The Power of the Church,” calling your attention to some
of the duties of the Pastors and Deacons, having its basis in
the text found in Acts XX:28, “Take heed, therefore, unto
yourselves, and all the Hock, over which the Holy Ghost hath
made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he
has purchased with his own blood.”

St. Paul, the great evangelist of the gentile world, on the
return of his third missionary tour enroute to Jerusalem
stopped at Miletus and sent to Ephesus for the Elders of the
Church. When the elders had answered to his call, Paul re¬
minded them how he had lived consistent with the gospel
of the grace of God and faith in Jesus Christ, which he had
preached to them and their flock during the three years lie
was at Ephesus and had not ceased day or night to warn and
exhort them with a heart overflowing with sympathy lor
their welfare.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

345

Now lie hastened in spirit to Jerusalem that he might be
there on the Day of Pentecost, he knew not what would be¬
fall him, only he knew that the Holy Ghost in every city tells
him that bonds and afflictions iie in wait for him, but none of
these things moved him, neither counted he his life dear to
himself that he might iinish his course with joy. And as St.
Paul bids the Elders farewell, he breaks out in the language
of the text: “Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves, and to all
the flock over which the Holv Ghost hath made you over-
seers, to feed the church of God which he has purchased witlj
his own blood.”

Therefore, take heed, and the word “therefore” implies
that something took place before this, something occurred
that led up to these words. What was it? A good, pure,
upright and inspiring life, for three years in their midst, the
preaching of a pure gospel of Christ, all men that knew this
could hear witness that lie never wronged any man, and he
never failed to declare the counsel of God to the well being
of mankind.

Now what is the secret of this life? It was thoroughly
equipped for public service — thoroughly qualified for this
life’s work.

From the life of St. Paul and Moses we are led to realize
that a minister must he thoroughly qualified in order to per¬
form the best service and to accomplish the greatest good for
the uplift and elevation of humanity.

This age demands a greater preparation than ever, be¬
cause today Christian civilization and education are not only
confined to the classes of the few, the poets, philosophers,
scientists, orators, and the professions, but have been dissem¬
inated among the masses and thus the school houses have
been planted in city and town, on hill top and every vale
throughout the length and breadth of this country. And
even among our own people 70 per cent are able to read
against 5 per cent in 1870.

This is indeed a progressive age, civilization has made
greater strides within the last hundred years than it had
accomplished in a thousand years before — and thus we be¬
hold the prophetic declaration of Daniel: “Even to the time
of the end, many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall
be increased.”

«ib naad a/nil Jud .anouealnq ad) bnc «#ie)*no .afaitnsi oe
vjirf toBitod looiloa ad) tuili im/j ad) ^norir baitiJic

346

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

A young man aspiring to the ministry, which is the
noblest aspiration and the highest calling of man, should be
encouraged and insisted upon to get an English or good pre¬
paratory education and if possible a college course, and then
take his theological training.

The young preacher must be able to cope with the physi¬
cal, intellectual, moral, and social planes of education, before
he can convince the world that he is master of the spiritual
plane, have fellowship and sweet communion with God, have
a real message of salvation to the unsaved world.

Some of you preachers, that are already in the pastorage,
may combat these facts, by saying that you did not have this
preparation or opportunity, and that God prepares his men,
that is true, but you must remember that you were prepared
by slow degrees, little here and little there, and when many
of you entered the ministerv, many of our people were very
little read, and you grew in knowledge with the people. But
today the young minister must be prepared when he enters
the ministry, if he ever hopes to succeed. And I believe that
the church does a young man an injustice and unpardonable
wrong if she licenses him to preach unprepared.

God sends a prepared man to a prepared people, and
thus when the Jewish nation, with their developed and per¬
fected church, whose people were thoroughly familiar with
the Old Testament scriptures, the Greek nation noted for its
great learning and I he home of profound scholars, and the
Roman nation with her mighty power the proud mistress of
the world, had blended together. Rome with her physical
power. Greece with her intellectual ability and the Jew with
his spiritual capacity, three nations in one, under a single
government, then came Jesus Ghrist. the immaculated Lamb
of God with a Great Ideal of Spiritual (dory. “Glory to God
in the highest and on earth peace and good will to men."

Our Lord Jesus demonstrated his great master mind and
qualifications bv entering the temple at the early age of only
12 years, by asking and answering questions of the doctors,
lawyers and scholars, rine with the knowledge, culture and
refinement of the ages. Jesus Gonvinced the World That He
Was Able to Save Souls bv Healing the Bodv and Curing the
Mind.

1 ,olqo q q r, nl nnm n fcfmo* |*j0

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

347

The preacher must, in order to maintain his qualifications
and thorough equipment. Study Three Rooks.

(1) He must study the word of God, the great book of
books, whose subject is the salvation of man, the holy scrip¬
tures that tell of God’s dealing with man and His revelation
to man through the past ages of the world. Study it criti¬
cally, study its laws, its history, its poetical ideals, its pro¬
phecies, the miracles, its parables, and above all the life of
Christ and His profound teaching: That the Holy Ghost Will
Guide You in the Ways of Virtue, Wisdom and Truth.

Our blessed Lord Jesus tells us to search the scriptures.
St. Paul, the old herald of the cross, says to Timothy, the
young hero of the gospel: “Studv to show thyself approved
unto God, a workman that ncedeth not to be ashamed.”

(2) The preacher must study the great book of nature.
He must observe the earth in all of its phases, its towering
mountains, its magnificent gorges, its rolling hills, its splendid
valleys, its broad plains, the winding silvery rivers, that make
their ways to the great deep, the lakes, the seas, and the great
ocetns. He must observe the coming and going of the sea¬
sons, the beautiful spring, the ripening summer, the gath¬
ering of the fruits and harvest in autumn, and the winter
with all of her wintry blasts.

He must observe t lie great animal kingdom, the vegetable
kingdom, and the mineral kingdom with all of their varieties.
Not stopping there, but he must behold the starry heavens
with all the innumerable stars shining forth from their dark
background, with all of their beauty and grandeur. As David
while Watching His Father’s Flock upon the Hills of Judea
Could Read God in all Nature? and as he sat playing upon his
harp he said: “The heavens declare the glory of God and the
firmament showeth his handiwork, day unto day utter speech,
and night unto night showeth knowledge.” And our blessed
Lord Jesus could sav. the lilies of the field, they toil not. etc.,
the birds of the air have nests, the foxes have holes. He
could speak of the sower going forth sowing seed. And thus
we must studv nature, in order that we may bring live i 1 his-
(rations that will illustrate our subjects; and a help to a young
minister he should secure some good book upon nature that
will give him an insight into that great subject.

:v'

4 1 b'K. 'Mv.it?, vid Muirl af r'lPinirif

318

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

(3) The third book. The preacher must study man.
David says: “What Is Man that thou Art Mindful of Him, Thou
Visits the Son of Man, Thou Hast Made Him a Little Lower
than the Angels, and Hast Crowned Him with Glory and
Honor.”

And St. Paul says: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of
God, and that the spirit of God dwelleth in you. If any man
defiles the temple, him shall God destroy, for the temple of
God is holy, which temple ye arc.”

And Socrates, the great philosopher of Greece, aroused
the ancient world in the profound thought, exclaimed: “Know
Th> 'self.” So, dear friends, it behooves us each individually
to know himself. I Must Know Myself, the Relation that I
Hold between Myself and God, if I Would Have the Desired
Power that God Would Have Me Have.

We are not only to study man from the psychological
viewpoint, but we are to study our relation with other men.
We are to see man in all his selfishness and indifferences, and
to make the proper comparison, so as to he able to apply the
proper remedy for misdeeds for the things that are inconsis¬
tent with the teachings of this holy book.

Thus Jesus was familiar with man, and has given us an
example how to study man. and may I call your attention to
the parable of the rich man Divies and Lazarus, and also the
wealthy man, whose crops had produced such an abundance
that his old barns were unable to hold his crops, and conse¬
quently he had to build new barns in order to secure and pre¬
serve his crops.

And when he had completed and stored away his harvest,
he said to himself that he had abundance of food and material
that would last many years, and he said to his soul “Soul take

% V

thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry, and God said unto him.
Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee, and
then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided?”

(4) Lastly it is the minister’s duty to read good books pro¬
duced by the best authors. If you have not the time to read
many books, read a few books and read them well.

For the benefit of those who have not had the advantage
of a preparatory course or college or theological training, I
would suggest that you would get a catalogue from some
noted school as Howard University, and there select the books

mq bnc oiim* ol r>lna ni ?.ina<l v/on Wiud of burl art yllnoup

<* i * f <*1 >iiv 9ii brif, ,<ni y; ncin )ar;l bliiov/ turf I

: <iJ nr. mII l‘ > ;•! ton i ^ _ i !• 1 ■ i 1 to'*!

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

349

named therein, noting certain courses which are in the Eng¬
lish, and if you will read them well, they will be of much
benefit to you and you will be very much helped thereby.

The text says you are to take heed to all of the flock over
which the IIolv Ghost has made vou overseers. After having
studied these three books, you are then prepared to take care
of the flock. What do we understand by the flock? It is the
church. And what is a church? It is a congregation of bap¬
tised believers, and as an illustration when the apostles
preached on the day of Pentecost and three thousand souls
were baptised and added to the church.

The church is a great civilizing force in the world. The
influence of the church is that great unseen and unassuming
force in the hearts of men working quietly by calling men to
the sense of their duty, stirring up their inborn forces, or in
other words the religious instinct within them. And every
man, woman and child has the germ of religion, or the sense
of God within him. Therefore, religion is that force in man
that causes him to consider and to realize that there is a
supreme being above all things, the omnicient, the omnipres¬
ent. the omninotent, the great first cause. It causes him to
have the desire to worship the supreme being, because he
realizes that he is dependent for life, health, peace, and happi¬
ness from that supreme being.

Since this is the condition man is urged under this im¬
pulse as his dutv to meet together and to worship this great
being. So we find in all ages and among all people, man
worshipping God or gods in some form. Whether mono¬
theistic or poli t heist ic. the object is the same. One writer
has said that the great and good moral reformists in all ages,
the authors of manv false religions of the world represent
man reaching tin to heaven, trying to bring God down. They
are groping in darkness for light. The Christian religion re¬
presents God reaching down from heaven and lifting up men,
and showing the glorious light of heaven upon men. We are
not to ta]k about the Pagan church, hut the Christian church,
which is built on the great foundation of the living rock
Christ Jesus, the Son of the living God. The gates of hell
cannot prevail against that great personality whose way was
prepared by the patriarchs, the prophets and the holy men
of old.

, . , f n'!C n» bnn limji nil tt-.rll hie* tnrf

-.Ill// vtifr.fTn^-THij l _ .

350

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The church is lifting men out of the rude state, the ter¬
rible conditions of barbarism to the high plane of civilization,
out of the mud and mire to success and most glorious illumi¬
nation. Wherever the Church Has Gone, the Swamps, the
Wilderness and Forests Have Given Way to Thriving Farms
and Beautiful Cities. Ignorance has been displaced by
knowledge, vice has been expelled by virtue, wickedness dis¬
placed by righteousness and confusion dispelled by peace,
and Christ has said: “If I be lifted up from the Earth, I Will
Draw All Men unto Me.”

The church is the great educational influence in the world.
From time immemorial, the church has been the founder of
schools, and the priests and ministers have been the instruc¬
tors in art, science, philosophy, and all branches of learning
down through the ages.

In every locality where a church is situated there we lind
the highest state of intelligence, industry, culture, and refine¬
ment.

In every church, no matter How Insignificant the Pastor’s
Sermons may be, they always inspire a great portion of his
congregation to study, meditation and reflection; and thus
the ultimate end is the creation of a thirst for knowledge,
sharpening of the intellect and t lie Cultivation of the High
Slate of Refinement and Religion.

The evidence is found even among our own race. The
Greatest Progress Accomplished Is Found among the Church-
Going People.

The church is great moralizing light in the world. It
teaches man’s duty to man, to love thy neighbor as thyself.
This is the fundamental basis of civilization of the world. It
has caused man to raise his head above the inferior animals,
and gaze upon the lofty heights of nature and look upon all
the universe and behold the Glory of God. It Is Like the Sun
to the Great Solar System which Gives Light and Ileal to the
Planets thereof. And so it is with the Church. It Gives
Moral Light to the Sons of Men.

The church is the great spiritualizing illumination in the
universe. By the spiritual eye of faith David could see the
declarative glory of God in the whole universe, and he breaks

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

351

out in the beautiful language of t he Scriptures: “Whither
shall I go from thy spirit, or whither shall 1 flee from thy pres¬
ence. If I ascend up to heaven thou art there, If I make my
bed in hell behold thou art there. If 1 take the wings of the
morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even
there shall thy hand hold me.”

To feed the church of God which he has purchased with
his own blood.

The Issues of the Church Must Re Live. No institution
in the world has so much intlucnce to improve and develop
the country life as a church when properly conducted. The
church may aid in securing better schools, good roads, im¬
proved health conditions and the improvement of the com¬
munity of every sort, without lowering the spiritual standard,
which is the greatest purpose of the church. The church
can organize the whole community for the general good, and
by so doing Strengthens its Intlucnce for Religious Growth.
The modern church must be in line with the modern thought
and progress of the day.

The Preacher Must be Instructive. Therefore, it be¬
comes the duty of the minister to visit the homes of his mem¬
bers, and observe their needs and the needs of the district or
neighborhood in which his church is located, that he may be
able to supply their needs through wholesome suggestions.

The preacher must be Thoroughly Impressed with the
Importance of the Holy Ghost, notwithstanding all of His
Qualifications, he must Go In Prayer to God, to pray for the
fulfillment of his Soul's Desires, that the ITolv Ghost May
Lead Him in the Ways of Truth, Virtue and Wisdom.

Our blessed Lord, just before leaving the earth, promised
to send the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the
Father will send in his name, he shall teach you all things
and call to vour remembrance whatsoever he said unto vou.

In conclusion, I have endeavored to call your attention
to the Importance of the Qualifications of the Minister that he
must study the word of God. study the book of nature and the
book of man. The definition of the Hock which is the church,
and what the church has accomplished in civilization, the
educational force, the moral uplift, the spiritual illumination,
and to Feed the Church of God which he has purchased with
His Own Rlood.

I' ZZ •“ '! Ui '"hr’itinun tfiil. o,U *•>«,,»

■

, . ’ JH M .nul l U viuoo

111' ■ . .. I

,iliv/ 'WiMTUiqm I Oil ibiflv/ buf) 1o ibtticID vll Jm»f oi hntf

352

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Now in the language of St. Paul: “Brethren, I commend
you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to
build you up, and to give you inheritance among all them
which are sanctified.”

And may the Lord bless you and keep you, and preserve
you until we all shall meet around the great white throne
where we sail part no more.

Remember the text.

In 1894, a young man named Rroadus A. McDonald came
to us from Zion Baptist Church, through dear Brother How¬
ard’s influence. He did not keep the church long however,
resigning in a little more than a year. He married the eldest
daughter of our beloved Deacon, Richard Holland. One son
was born to them, Rroadus A. McDonald, Jr., who served
“over seas,” and recently died because of hardships.

Rev. McDonald frequently filled our pulpit, even till now.

MRS. MARCELLINE ARNOLD- WINSTON.

of Independence, Texas.

Sister of Emily Saunders. Plummer.

She was sold, with her mother and sisters, January, 1857.
Returned on a visit, 1883.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

353

A GRAND CONCERT AND ENTERTAINMENT

Given by the

BAPTIST SUNDAY SCHOOL OF BLADENSBURG
Tuesday Evening, August 14, 1891 Admission 10 Cents

Rev. F. G. Hall, Supt.

A GRAND CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT
At the Bladensburg Baptist Church, Tuesday Evening
December 29, 1896, at 7:30 P. M.

Admission 10 Cents Miss Lillie Holland, Supt.

Rev. T. J. Houston, Pastor

THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GATHERING

of the

First Baptist Sunday School of Bladensburg, will take place on
Tuesday Night, December 28, 1897, at 7 o’clock
Don’t fail to witness the two scenes — “In Bethlehem”

Admission Ten Cents

Rev. F. G. Hall. Supt. Rev. R. L. Simmons, Pastor

The year 1897 brought us Rev. Robert L. Simmons, an¬
other Wavlandite, who promised to he a good speaker. Ere
we could believe our own eyes, he was summoned. The fol¬
lowing copy tells the sad truth:

In Loving Remembrance of the Late

REV. ROBERT L. SIMMONS

Pastor of the Bladensburg Baptist Church
Who Departed 1'his Life September 25, 1899
Written at the Request of the Officers of Bladensburg
Baptist Church, December, 1899

Solomon G. Brown

Rev. George W. Lucas, Pastor in Charge
Mr. Nicholas Saunders Plummer. Senior Deacon
Read at the Memorial Service, held December 31, 1899

n ii in :ia *,;» <ir[ „.„0 1M0 bJooo va

' '■ '»•*»•«« I ill lo iolenq

354

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

Come Home, Worthy Preacher

In his sick chamber all was still except when the pros¬
trate sufferer groaned with effort. This faithful servant of
God had been stricken by a fatal disease, had become ex¬
ceedingly weak from intense fever, cutting pains, and loss of
vitality. Lying prostrate on the bed of death, waiting for the
final summons, God bearing his groans, dispatched angels
to bis bedside to relieve and bring his soul to final rest, saying
“Behold, my servant groans.” Quick as a flash of lightning,
the bright angels from heaven are at his side saying to the
sufferer:

Come home, weary pilgrim, your labors are done,

The battle is ended, your victory is won;

Close that old Bible and take this bright crown —

Fly to bright mansions where pure love abounds.

He gives up that body and faces his King,

Who relieves him so softly, he feels not death's sting;

But like a true hero, when death did appear,

He smiled at his presence, feeling no fear.

His faith firmlv grounded in promises of God,

He knew from death’s chamber was a road to reward;

So faithful he’d labored to save all mankind,

Was willing and ready to leave all behind.

His church and bis people, be leaves in God’s care.

Till God. by His wisdom, will bring some man here;

Who’ll feed and encourage and care for this stock.

Be pastor and leader, will shepherd this flock.

We feel almost certain the right man is here,

A good fearing servant, a man of great care;

A kind, gentle brother so, so patient and good,

W ith proper attention, lie’ll be soon understood.

Bv death of your late pastor, you felt much depressed,

Ibis church, friends and members were greatly depressed;
As pastor and people you’d meet, greet and part,

A oneness in faith, in communion and heart.

You gathered around him, a pastor you loved
And while you stood weeping .he was happy above,
ith all those bright angels he’s moving around.

Selecting bis robe, and trying bis crown.

All join in hosannah, his sullerings are passed.

THE THIL'Ml’lI OF THE CROSS

!■

/•

;•

}

35 3

Safe in God’s presence, and with Jesus at last;

In songs of redemption make music above.

With millions and millions all saved through His love. .
With him all’s now over, ho worries no more.

His mission on earth forever is o’er; . :

God saw it was time, and knew it was best.

To call him from labor, to the hcavcnlv rest.

Our community was overwhelmingly Catholic and
Methodist. A baptism hv immersion was very rare, and
attracted large crowds, reverent and otherwise.

Soon after I was baptized in 1871. it became* quite the
thing for idlers, on hearing there was to he baptizing, to
gather in crowds to jest and make game. On several occa¬
sions they would cast a dog in, just as one was immersed.
So we thought that would never do. We planned a baptis¬
tery in our church.

* •

The following copy explains itself:

Mr. Adam F. Plummer:

Dear Sir and Friend: Your contribution to our church
of ten cents, through Miss Nellie Plummer, assisted us greatly
in putting a well, pump, and a baptistery in our church yard.

We heartily thank you for your donation, and hope you
will, whenever opportunity permits, call and see the much
needed improvements, amounting to 857.1)0, which you have
so generously helped us to make.

Ry order of the Church,

Rev. R. L. Simmons, Pastor,

Sadie M. Plummer, Clerk.

RIadensburg, Md., February 1, 1808.

Dear father gave me the first dime toward the work.
The church presented us a silver cup for completing the work
(raising the money).

Miss Courlnev Rumbrv, daughter of our beloved Senior
Deacon, financed the idea, and made the presentation for the
church.

356

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

Ripe in experience came Rev. Thomas J. Houston. But
we were too poor to meet his requirements. So he served us
one year. In that short time we gained so much from his
dignified bearing as a minister and father. Though he has
long since passed, his wife and children survive him. Law¬
yer Wm. L. Houston and Miss Clotile Houston are known
to many, as are the rest of his children. All have remarkable
minds. Bladensburg Baptist Church wishes every member of
his family well, and wish they would visit us.

Blessed be the memory of Rev. T. J. Houston.

A GRAND CONCERT AND ENTERTAINMENT
Will be Given by the Sunday School of the

BLADENSBURG BAPTIST CHURCH
Wednesday, July 1, 181)6

It is our aim to make the program short but highly en¬
tertaining. The principal enjoyment of the evening will be
music by Washington’s Best Violinist

MR. JOSEPH H. DOUGLASS

DON’T FAIL TO HEAR HIM.

If the weather is unfavorable, the Concert will take place
Friday Evening, July 3rd.

Rev. F. G. Hall, Superintendent.

Rev. T. J. Houston, Pastor.
PROCEEDS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE SUNDAY SCHOOL

Admission — 10 Cents

. oo od i ax'Mivy 10 Traswaa juprr aqaaDoaq

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

357

Houston. In loving tribute to the memory of our hus¬
band and father, Rev. T. J. HOUSTON, who departed this life
in the city of Washington, I). C., on February 19, 1899, at his
residence, 1411 Swann Street N. W.

MRS. T. J. HOUSTON AND FAMILY.

CHRISTMAS, 1896

The Scholars of the First Raptist Sunday School of Bla-
densburg take great pleasure in inviting their many friends
to meet them at their

XMAS GATHERING

Which Will Take Place Tuesday Evening, December 29, 1896

at 7 o’clock P. M.

Don’t Fail to Witness the Three Scenes in Bethlehem

Admission 10 Cents Refreshments at Moderate Prices

Miss Lillie Holland, Supt. Rev. T. J. Houston, Pastor

As was hinted by Mr. Solomon G. Brown at Rev. Sim¬
mon’s Memorial. “The Right Man is Here,” we found Rev.
Lucas to be that man (1900).

Rev. George Walter Matthew Lucas, our ninth pastor,
we did not have to learn. He knew us, we knew him. So
rapid strides in the saving of souls were made. So humbled
were we by the deaths of Rev. Simmons ami Hall, that bv
March, 1900, he had 32 candidates for baptism. Rev. Lucas*
stay with us was glorious, as pastor and people. We knew
it would be. We knew how he was reared. Moses and Jane
Lucas worshipped with us in the “Rabbit Gum.” They saw
no way to educate their large family of five boys and live
girls, unless they moved to Washington. This they did, giv¬
ing them the advantage of the public schools. They toiled
and sulTered, and died that their children might inherit the
Ibe promise.” Did it pay? Every Lucas child made good.
Some are excellent! Miss Mattie Bowen, one of Washing¬
ton’s greatest teachers once asked: “Have you had any of
those Lucas boys? Thcv are such gentlemen!”

v k O

But Rev. and Mrs. G. W. M. Lucas, while with us, had
a large family of their own. The family was growing larger
and larger.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

It happened that he received a call from a church in
Cumberland, Md., that could pay him much more than we
could. So we lost him after five most pleasant years as pas¬
tor and people. That Rev. Lucas “walked and talked” with
God was shown in his prayer and song power.

Could we have seen the storm that was coming, we never
would have consented for him to go, 1003, 1001, and 1003,
many of the youth of our church died. Who else but Rrother
Lucas could have comforted Rrother Saunders in his great
loss? He was still with us when we lost Miranda and Henry.
For it was lie who wrote her obituary. We sent for him
when we lost father. What a comforter lie was! We still
hear him saying: “Jesus, thou art the sinner’s friend. As
such I look to t lice. Now in l lie fullness of thy love, 0, Lord,
remember me.

Remember thy pure word of grace.

Remember Calvary;

Remember all thy dying groans.

And then remember me.”

1005 — 1906

Besides sickness and death, still another storm was rising
— such a storm as we had never had!

J. S. I,. Burke, a Cuban, was installed pastor. By May
of 1906, we were terribly torn apart. It took the utmost
pains and patience to get him awav by the fall. The old
church was then 10 years old. and this was our first serious
trouble. Me can say without contradiction that we never
had but one had minister. 'With charity for all, and malice
toward none,” let us draw the vail.

/ni(l iojjk oj wioil/jq Inin aninrr

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

359

1906 — 1915

Rev. Charles Cushingberrv was brave enough to take
charge of us, although we were terribly divided. As if that
was not enough, our dear, old church building was burned
July 8, 1907, from a spark from an engine. Some thought
it the work of enemies, but Rev. Cushingberrv was a good
man, taking sides with no one, he preached the Gospel of
Peace. Some of us bad worshipped on a dirt floor. We bad
been with the founders, and knew the depths from which
we came. We did not intend to go back to Egypt, but on to
the “promised land!” So we organized, and in five years ail
. indebtedness of more Ilian five thousand dollars was paid.

Rev. John II. Dailey and family lived across the street
from the church. That entire family deserve honorable men¬
tion for having done all they could to help restore the build¬
ing. Even to allowing their organ to be lifted in to the
street. The building was originally built in 1718. Hence it
was nearly two hundred years old when destroyed.

See statement:

■

360

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH. Bladensburg, Md.

STATEMENT Recpts. Cost

1907 — Church burned

1908 — Rebuilt, Cost - - - - -

1909 — Small Insurance, 8150; B. & O. R. R.,

850 _

1909 — At close, had collected - - -

1910 — Raised _ _ _ _ —

1910 — Given, May 28, 1910 _

1911— Collected . . . . .

1912 — Raised _

1913 — For Electric Lights, 8106; For Loan,

Penny Savings Bank, 8110; For Rebuild¬
ing Fund, 8600 . . . . .

85,000

200

2,800

507.75

500

192.25

200

600

85,000 85,000

Paid _ _ _ _ _ 85,000

Balance Due _ _ _ _ _ 0

Gratefully vours,

Nellie A. Plummer, Chairman of Finance; Mrs. S. M. Plum-
mer-Johnson, Church Clerk; Rev. Chas. Cushingberry, D. D.,
Pastor. November 30, 1913.

“Blessed arc the dead who die in the Lord, for they shall
henceforth rest from their labor and their works do follow
them.”

Richard Holland was born March 25, 1811, at Belair,
Prince George County, Maryland. Died November 5, at 4
a. m., 1907. Aged 66 years. 7 months, and 10 days. He mar¬
ried Jemima Turner, daughter of the late Charles and Ame¬
lia Turner. He is survived by three sons, two daughters,
six brothers, and one sister.

He w as a faithful and loving husband, father, brother
and friend. — The Family.

“Servant of God, well done!

Thy glorious warfare is past;

The battle’s fought, the race is won.

And thou art crowned at last.

With saints enthroned on high,

Thou dost thy Lord proclaim;

And still to God salvation cry, —

Salvation to the Lamb!”

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

361

Deacon Richard Holland was baptized and received into
the First Raptist Church of Bladensburg about 1872 by Rev.
Augustus Watts.

Every one who knows anything of the terrible struggles
of the church while yet in her infancy, knows what substan¬
tial support Deacon Holland gave. It was lie who sacrificed
many a night’s rest in order that “Mother” Clark should carry
the Gospel from house to house in prayer. He thus helped
to lay the foundation.

No matter what trouble ever arose, he was ever known
to stand for the right as God had given him power to see it.

Every member of the church blest God at his having
been restored to 11s after his severe illness last February.
Ever since then he has lost no opportunity to cry out in
prayer to yonder sinner — “Behold, behold the Lamb of God,
Who died to take away the sins of the world.” When visited
by the brethren last Sundav, he asked if he didn’t hear sis-
ter Clark downstairs. When he was told no, but that her
representatives were there, he was anxious to tell us that he
would “soon be home!” He sang, as if defying death to
chill his love and zeal for the cause he had labored for more
than thirty-five years.

When fire destroyed our place of worship on the 8th
of July, we met on t he 1 1th amid the ruins. His was tiie
first dollar laid down on the table for the rebuilding. Feeling
well assured that the church will be rebuilt, the burden of his
prayer was that his family should be loving, kind and true.
That thev forsake the world and sacrifice for Christ. Lord,
grant that his prayer shall be answered. — Citizens — Children.

Your church, the Sunday School, the Endeavor, The
Union ,and your every good work say:

“Sleep on beloved, sleep and take thy rest! For thou
shalt wake no more to toil and weep. We loved thee well,
hut Jesus loved the best; Good night, good night!”

The Church.

He was the children’s friend. A good citizen has passed
away from us. Sing — “Asleep in Jesus.” November 7, 1907.

It was thus we followed Jesus “bv Way of the Cross.”
We learned we could do all things through Christ, Who
strengthens us. Appeals in and for the sake of Jesus are

Kill ► 'Mil I) \mW Hi; [|9#

lo ban fli eijjDcjqA

362

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

not lost. Although Rev. and Mrs. Cushingberry did not live
among us. they influenced many of their friends to help us.
The chairman of finances can testifv to manv sacrifices they
made at their table that our church might live.

About the time the Third Baptist Church lost their pastor.
Rev. James Lee, they called their son. Rev. Cushingberry, to
take charge of them until they could select. Hence we were
called upon again after nine years of peace to give up an¬
other Christian gentleman. We still hear him singing: “Ma¬
jestic sweetness sits enthroned Upon the Savior’s brow; His
head with radiant glories crowned, His lips with grace o’er-
flow.”

1915 - 1917

About 1890, Brother Saunders received a letter from Los
Angeles, California, stating that he and his wife expected to
come east and wanted to join our church. This was very
unusual, for Christians often loiter out of the church long
after reaching their destination. Months and months passed
when one Sunday morning a large, well-built man worshipped
with us. After service, he made known his errand, and the
writer of the letter was revealed in person. He was George
G. Mills, not more than fortv or fortv-five years old. He
had had little educational advantages, but he had a good
memory. Once he heard a Bible story, it was his. This
made him very powerful in prayer, for he was tilled with
the Holy Spirit. He was willing to work anywhere and
everywhere, being superintendent of the Sunday School. His
power in prayer, and having learned “For the Kingdom of
God is not meat and drink; hut righteousness and peace, and
joy in the Ilolv Ghost." he became a mighty tower of strength
for us during our trouble, 1905-1906. It seems to me he
was sent to us for just such a time. He had perfect control
of himself, and so God used him to help preserve 11 is Church.
What a commanding figure he made leading God’s Army
during the Golden Jubilee of Old St. Paul's Baptist Church,
October, 1916. He had such a beautiful spirit, at all times,
under all circumstances. He fully realized that he was a
servant of God, sent to “Lift up Jesus,” and not a domineer¬
ing boss. So we loved him because we could see Jesus
through him.

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wH n fbiw l*ni ml *,j of irne sow

*,r. ,,,,, .ii-xmin n)

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,/*o*)f j 1 1'imn'in I In wlmu

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

363

If ever a cluirch was overshadowed with the Holy Spirit
we were during the entire year, six months before and six
months after October 19, 1916. We pause to exclaim once
more: “Bless the Lord!” And we needed that shower, too,
for after standing where Moses stood, viewing the landscape
o’er, we were called upon to descend as it were into the very
valley of death. We can’t yet believe that without his know¬
ing, or our least suspecting, by August, 1917. Brother Mills
was fading before our very eyes. Ere the fall had ended, he
had gone to “bright mansions above.”

His wife died later, and left our church one hundred
dollars. I may not have said In’s wife was considered very
well-to-do. Brother Mills helped us financially as well as
spiritually. Brother Mills, we still hear the echo of your
voice: “Guide me. 0 thou Great Jehovah, Pilgrim through
tins barren land: I am weak but thou art mighty. Hold me
with thy powerful hand; Bread of heaven. Feed me till I
want no more.”

1917 - 1926

While Brother Mills was with us, he sometimes brought

with him a voung man. whom he introduced as his "son,
Timothy.” During our Fiftieth Anniversary, he made him**
self especial1" gracious. So. when Brother Mills became too
sick to serve, we did not hesitate to call him as acting pastor,
which we did August 2. 1917. Wo wer(» delighted with his
short sermons, and the prompt manner that he went from
one narl o'” the service to the other. To me it seemed as if
Brother Hall had returned, hut this lime full of strength and
glory. August I. 19RS, he was called as pastor, lie
gifted with speech and was well reared. Mrs. Sarah K. Gas¬
kins, his mother, has been long a member of Second Baptist
Church, Washington. 1). If any son ought to have in¬
clined toward spirituality. Rev. Gaskins ought to be that one,
because of his good mother. His mother and all of his good
sisters, especially Mrs. Bessie Wilson, rallied to help us many
times, for which wi* are deeply grateful, also to their many
friends and acquaintances. Bev. Gaskins* wife seemed al¬
ways glad to be with 1 1 s whenever possible. If Brother WiD
son or his wile left church without shaking hands with me,
I felt as if I had lost something.

■

361

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

My sister, .Julia Plummer-Ruffin and mother Gaskins
were friends before their marriage. So we were all deeply
interested in the young preacher.

Several improvements were made, of which seating the
church with new and beautiful pews, at a cost of two thous¬
and sixteen dollars, was probably the most expensive. Thus
the old pews, used more than a hundred years, gave way to
new and comfortable ones. A splendid furnace plant, at a
cost of eleven hundred dollars, did away with stoves. We
were then reminded how we enjoyed the electric lights over
the oil lamps, in 1913. The roof and many other repairs were
made. “The people had a mind to work,’’ and Rev. Gaskins
encouraged them. During the last two years of his ministry
we grew more spiritually minded, and many from the Sunday
School, as well as from the congregation, were added to the
church. It was seldom that we did not have a solemn com¬
munion, or a spiritual covenant.

Then the usual thing with us happened. Liberty Church,
Washington, D. C., called him. He is gone. Gave his fare¬
well discourse, June 13, 1926, 8 p. m.

We think our deacons were far-sighted in recommending
Brother Brooks as acting pastor. May God supply all our
needs, which He has promised to do, if we “Lift Him up,’’
and not ourselves.

Whv so many pastors in sixtv vears. Reverends Leon-
ard, Alexander, and Houston accepted our call only tempor¬
arily — three splendid men of God. They left, loving us, and
we loved them.

Reverends Walts, Plummer, Hall. Lucas, Cushingberry,
and Gaskins left us for larger fields of work. These six men
were honored and respected as servants of the Most High.
With scarcely an exception was there ever a ripple between
pastor and people.

Reverend McDonald never took another charge after his
marriage to Miss Mamie Holland, in 1897.

Reverends Simmons and Mills died in office. These two
were loved and lamented.

Joseph S. L. Burke was dismissed.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

365

Rev. J. T. Rrooks was elected acting pastor, June 3, 1926,
and pastor, November l, 1926. We are very much pleased
with his sincerity, his determination to lift up Jesus, by well
prepared and pointed sermons of Jesus of Nazareth, our Rock,
the Chief among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely,
wonderful, Councelor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and
the Prince of Peace!

All the growth taken on by Bladensburg and Hyattsville
has been in the last ten to fifteen years. Until the World
War. wages were very low. Owing to our proximity to
Washington, there are no factories, few stores, in short, our
members had to scatter in order to make a livelihood. Dea¬
cons R. C. Moss and Saunders Plummer made the sacrifice,
and remained for the sake of Zion.

But Brother Moss' children had to leave when grown to
get better employment. Mrs. Hattie Moss Fortune is today
a staunch member, while Mrs. Lula Moss Welch, a former
member, is a staunch friend of our Zion.

But every one of Brother Saunders' children, as well as
his wife, is a member and a constant communicant of their
father’s church. It is hard to tell what we would have done
without them.

Thus, I wish to bear witness, that for no other reason,
our church has been kept small in numbers, economic rea¬
sons onlv. The visiting of those who were compelled to he
absent for months and years has been a perpetual source of
joy to us.

Every minister, while nastoring us. has labored elsewhere,
for the support of his familv. This is another serious reason
why our church was not built up numericallv. Thus we have
gladly and willingly helped to do his work, because of in¬
sufficient pav.

And yet! Todav. we are not so few in numbers as at the
beginning, nor as late as 1892. Then, not more than three
of us received $50 per month or more, many, many much
less. I wonder it we are wise to strive to beautify the church
first, instead of paying our minister so well that lie could
afford to live among us. and build up the spiritual side of our
work. Lei t to me, I would make the necessary sacrifice to
build up the “Spiritual Kingdom,** for Jesus said all else shall
be added.

• . .

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OH

3()G

I warn the church that we should support a pastor on
this field, for God has so materially blessed and prospered
us. May we not forget! now that we have “houses that we
did not build, and wells that we did not dig.” (Dent. Oih, 7th,
and 8th chapters).

Though small in number, the Lord has made us great
in heart. “For where two or three are gathered together in
my name, there am 1 in the midst of them/’ (Matt. 18:20).
Believing that “Xot by might nor by power, bill by my spirit,
saith the Lord,” we have done the best we could, knowing that
“The Kingdom of God is not meal and drink, hut righteous¬
ness and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

The Coining of the Wheelers, February 21, 1887

It was a “Happy Day” for St. Paul's Baptist Church, Bla-
densburg, Md., when Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wheeler decided
to leave Georgetown where their children were horn, to live
on a large farm in Chillum, Md., owned by a banker, B. P. •
Snyder.

Their children are Messrs. Henry S., Charles Wesley,
Thomas Alexander, Daniel S.» Jr., Mrs. Caroline V. Wheeler-
Broome, Miss Eli/a Belle, and Mrs. Winifred Wheeler-Burke.

Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler never removed their membership
from the First Baptist Church of Georgetown, where Rev.
Sandy Alexander had served so long and well. But their
children, though living quite a distance, attended our Sunday
School and Church. The iiiree daughters and three sons
joined the church quite young. Their eldest son joined re¬
cently.

It is hard to tell what the church would have done without
that family, especially when the building was burned in 1907.

For twenty years. Brother Charlie supplied the alter with
most beautiful (lowers. Now “Brother” Henry does.

All have held high positions in the church, and the church
is justly proud of them. Mrs. Broome ami Miss Fliza still
sing in the choir. Mrs. Broome is chairman of the Deacon¬
ess hoard. Miss Eliza has been superintendent of the Sunday
School, and president of the Endeavor for years.

One bv one, mother, father, youngest sister. “Brother”
Charlie, and “Tommie” went away. We shall see them again
when “just men are made perfect.”

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

367

BURKE. In sad but loving remembrance of mv dear wife,
WINNIE WHEELER BURKE, wbo departed'this life two
years ago today, October 15, 1918.

When morning birds are on the wing
My first thought is of thee.

And I think perhaps the evening
Will bring vou back to me.

When evening brings (he twilight
And spreads o’er land and sea.

I hope the dawn beyond the night
Will bring you back to me.

The days are beads on an endless chain,

And this their only key.

That sometime, somehow, something.

Will bring you back to me.

Then this the thought by angels sent,

I hear on bended knee.

And know at last the judgment
Will bring you back to me.

HER LOVING HUSBAND, WILLIAM BURKE.

WHEELER-BURKE. A tribute of affection to our dear ones,
mother, who departed this life March 8, 1901; father. May
14, 1916; brother CHARLES, September 20, 1922; bro¬
ther THOMAS, June 12, 1924; and sister WINNIE
BURKE, who passed away six years ago yesterday, Octo¬
ber 15, 1918.

We miss them no less as the time passes on
Than we did on the day of their going;

For absence can never close the door of our hearts,
And the lamp of our love is still glowing.

THE FAMILY.

Miss Eliza has a remarkable gift for memorizing. Hence
the selection of her life work.

On May 30, 1919, there was born to Mr. and Mrs. Broome
a son, Philip Wheeler Broome. We used to call him our
“Church Baby.” Such was the friendship that existed be¬
tween us, we used to love to refer to their home as that of
“Mary and Martha.”

fbiaiD

i *'.£f(licl/l bait fetfT

368

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

During these years of service, whether in the Sunday
School, the Christian Endeavor, the Choir, the W. C. T. U.,
or paying off the cost of rebuilding, God gave me a Caleb
and a Joshua, who never questioned my word, much less my
motive, they are Eliza B. Wheeler and Ida Plummer-Burke.
There is no honor that I could consider too great for them,
when their faithfulness and loyalty are considered.

PROF. JOHN HARVEY WIGCINTON.

By far the most Intellectual Member of St. Paul s Baptist Church. —

Ministers not excepted.

Can any Good Person come out of Bladensbnrg ?

Read and see !

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

369

WASHINGTON CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC
902 Tea Street N. W.

Harriet Gibbs Marshall. President
OPENING OF SUMMER SCHOOL. JULY 2. 1917

LATEST METHODS

Special Course for Little Children — Thorough Instruction

in Every Branch

THE GRADUATING EXERCISES
SCHOOL OF EXPRESSION
Assisted by other Departments of the Conservatory

PROGRAM

Invocation

Sonata No. 2 for Piano and Violin _ Mozart

Adagio Allegro Minuelto
Miss Beatrice Johnson, Mr. R. D. Carlton Dorsey

To Spring _ Grieg

Miss Minta Cato

Souvenir _ _ _ Franz Drdla

Mr. Jones

A Childs Dream of a Star _ Dickens

Miss Eliza Belle Wheeler

(a) Gray Days _ Johnson

(b) Carmena _ Lane

Mrs. Martha J. Carter

Butterfly _ Grieg

Gallirhoe _ _ _ . _ Chaminade

Miss Beatrice Johnson

The Painter of Seville _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Hayne

* Miss Olga Golden Hutchins

Traeumerei for Two Violins . Schumann

Mr. Chandler Chinn, Mr. Dorsey

Concerto Op. 37. C. Minor . . . . . . . Beethoven

1st Piano, Miss Grace Gibbs
2nd Piano. Miss Cclestine Lott

Presentation of Diplomas . Dr. W. Bruce Evans

Scholarships . . . Mr. Louis Gregory

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Charles W. Morrison. Director of Oberlin Conservatory.

Dr. W. E. R. DuBois, Editor of The Crisis

Hon. II. B. McFarland. Ex-Commissioner of the District

Percy Foster. Foster Piano, Co., Washington, 1). C.

Mrs. Addie Hunton, National Organizer Y. W. C. A.

370

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR
INITIAL RECITAL
Bv Miss Eliza Belle Wheeler

Elocutionist at St. Paul’s Baptist Church
Bladenshurg, Maryland
Friday, April 12, 1918, at 8 P. M.

PROGRAM
Part I.

1. Invocation _ _ _ _ _ Rev. II. T. Gaskins

2. Instrumental Solo _ _ _ _ _ Miss M.. L. Europe

3. Solo — Selected . . . . . . . Mrs. C. W. Murrav

4. Solo— Selected _ Miss V. Williams

5. Solo — Selected _ ... Dr. C. Sumner Wormley

6. Reading — (a) Smiting the Rock; (b) Dow He Saved St.

Michael; (c) The Baptist Church _ Miss Eliza Belle

Wheeler

Part II.

1. Instrumental Music.

2. Solo — Selected - Mrs. C. W. Murrav

3. Solo— Selected _ Miss V. Williams

4. Reading — (a) The Black Regiment; (b) The Polish Bov;

o. Solo — Selected - Dr. C. Sumner Wormley

G. Reading — A Child’s Dream of a Star

Miss Eliza Belle Wheeler

7. Benediction - - - - - - Rev. J. W. Porter

Miss N. A. Plummer, Presiding
USHERS:

Mrs. N. P. Moss, Miss Lucille Plummer, Mrs. X. B. Chinn

Miss Helen Brown

-oi au'< lfilnormnl*n[ .r

:M3H2U

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

371

$500 Raised Will Secure $500

Bv Wednesday, June 1st. 1010
TO HELP WIN THIS PRIZE

The Washington Mandolin Club and the Male Chorus of the
ARMSTRONG MANUAL TRAINING SCHOOL
Donating their services, have been invited to give a RARE

ENTERTAINMENT
At the First Baptist Church

Bladensburg, Md., Friday, May 0th, 1010. at 8 P. M. Sharp

Besides the Orchestra and Chorus, we will be entertained
by Miss Julia Brooks, daughter of Rev. Waller 1L Brooks, of
19th Street Baptist Church, who will recite. There will be
recitations by our own Miss Eliza B. Wheeler.

Soloists: Miss Simmons, Soprano; Miss Wallace, Con¬
tralto; Mr. Goodrich, Tenor; Miss L. J. Moten, Pianist.

It is earnestly hoped that every one will be in his seat
by 8 o’clock, as the literary part of the program will close
at 9:30, at which time the Church Aid will serve refreshments
at moderate prices. It can he readily seen that this 50 Cent
Concert is to be given for 10 Cents for the purpose of allow¬
ing every one to contribute. A cordial invitation is extended
to our Washington friends who will take any car leaving the
Treasury on G Street, for Laurel, Bcrwvn or Riverdalc, leav-
ing the car at Melrose, I lyat tsville, crossing B. A O. R. R., walk
southeast to the historical town of Bladcnshurg.

In case of inclement weather. Concert will take place the
following Tucsdav, Mav 1 0th, 1910.

OBJECT: — To Raise $500.

PROCEEDS: — To reduce our bonded indebtedness.

Sadie Plummer Johnson. Church Clerk.

Rev. Charles Cushingberrv, Pastor.

$600.00 ‘ $600.00

You are cordially and earnestly invited to contribute to
the balance of $600.00 indebtedness on the Rebuilding of St.
Paul’s Baptist Church of Bladcnshurg, Md. Total cost of
Rebuilding in 1908, was more than *5,000, all of which has
been paid (except the $000.00), in 5 years.

AIM: To raise the entire $000.00 by Nov. 30, 1913.

Will you help us?

Your contribution of $ . . for the Rebuilding

Fund, having been duly authorized, and collected by

— . . , is hereby

gratefully acknowledged.

?• lo noilndiilnoo iuoY

372

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

45TH ANNIVERSARY 45TH

Of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladcnsburg, Md.
October 1, to November 5, 1911
OBJECT: To Raise $1,000 with which to pay the balance

Due on Rebuilding

Sunday, October 1. — Communion. Every communicant is
urged to he present. 11:30 A. M. and 8 P. M. — Pastor.
Great Ethusiasm through Brother Taylor’s Prayer.
Friday, October 0 — Band Concert. Address by Miss Nannie
Burroughs. Disappointed us.

Sunday, October 8 — Preaching. 11:30 A. M. — Rev. I. N. In¬
graham. 8 P. M. — Rev. J. N. Beaman. Good.

Friday, October 13 — Entertainment. Col. B. F. Bingham,
Grand ! Miscellaneous.

Sunday, October 13 — Preaching. 1 1 :30 A. M. — Sunday School,
Christian Endeavor and Church Aid. 3 P. M. — Anniver¬
sary Sermon, by Rev. Walter 11. Brooks, D. D.

Friday, October 20 — Grand Concert.

Sunday, October 22 — Preaching. 1 1 :30 A. M. — Rev. Banks
and Choir. 3:00 P. M. — Ordination of Deacons, Rev.
James H. Lee, D. D.; Memorial to Deacon Richard Hol¬
land, Prof. John Harvey Wigginton, and Deacon Nicholas
Saunders Plummer.

Friday, October 27 — Illustrated Lecture.

Sunday, October 29 — Preaching. 11:30 A. M. — Rev. Dixon.

3:00 P. M. — Rev. J. L. Jasper.

Friday, November 3 — Grand Reception.

Sunday, November 5 — Communion. EVERYBODY COME.
11:30 A. M. — Pastor. 7:30 P. M. — Pastor.

Prayer Meeting and preaching every Thursday night.
Trustee Wm. E. Burke, Leader.

Sarah Miranda Plummer Clarke — Founder.

Sarah Miranda Plummer Johnson — Church Clerk.

Rev. Charles Cushingberrv — Pastor.

Concerts every Friday Night. Tickets 25 Cents.

NOTE — One ticket w II admit holder to Concerts every
Friday Night, from Oetob *r titli to November 3rd, inclusive.
SPECIAL MUSIC— Dr. R. F. Plummer, Director.

NELLIE A. PLUMMER, Chairman of Finances.

NOTE — By transferring to the 8th Street Line at 15th
Street Northeast, one will soon reach the ancient village of
Bladcnsburg, and he within two squares of the church.

. <|V

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

373

IN MEMORIAL!

“This Shall Re a Memorial Unto Them.”

I860 — — — 1914

As Usual, All Services During the Month of October Shall Be

ANNIVERSARY SERVICES

The special occasion, however, shall be unveiling of a
Memorial Tablet to the Olorv of God and in loving memory
of the work of REV. DR/ JOHN BRAGKENBRIDGE. a Pres¬
byterian Pastor here — 1773 to 1831, and SARAH MIRANDA
PLUMMER CLARK, who was founder of St. Paul’s Baptist
Church (October 19th, 18()0), which bought the Building from
the Presbyterians in 1873.

“Only Remembered by what I Have Done.”

PROGRAMME

Presentation _ _ Mr. John G. Morrison

Response _ Miss Nellie A. Plummer

Remarks by the Pastor, Rev. Gluts, Cushingberrv, D. D.

COLLECTION

Having so recently lost our beloved Senior Deacon, the late

HON. JESSE BUMBRY

we do solemnly and reverently dedicate all that may be said
or done during this anniversary as a Memorial to his noble
life work.

Rev. Charles Cushingberrv, D. D., Pastor
Mrs. Sarah Miranda Plummcr-Johnson, Church Clerk.

374

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

IN MEMORIAM OF THE DEPARTED CHURCH

Tunc: Auld Lang Syne.

It singeth low in every licart.

We liear it each and all,

A song of those who answer not.
However we may call;

They throng the silence of the breast.

We see them as of yore.

The kind, the brave, the true, the sweet,
Who walk with us no more.

Tis hard to take the burden up.

When these have laid it down;

They brightened all the joy of life.

They softened everv frown;

But, Oh, 'tis good to think of them.
When we are troubled sore!

Thanks ho to Cod that such have been.
Although they are no more!

More home-like seems the vast unknown.
Since they have entered there;

To follow them were not so hard.
Wherever thev mav fare;

They cannot be where God is not.

On anv sea or shore;

Whafe’er betides. Thy love abides.

Our God, for evermore.

By Prof. G. M. P. Kin

Text of Dr. Patton's son at Howard
Heb. 12:1-2 — Inspiration from the past!
the Future.

Semi-Centennial.
Consecrating for

> mjiii yj' T)V'r roil

. ■ vu

S-f:£r .dsH'

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

375

I860 OCTOBER 1916

“The Year of Jubilee is come!

Return, Ye Ransomed Sinners, home!”

Then shall thou cause the trumpet of the Jubilee to sound on
the Nineteenth Day of t lie Tenth month of the Year 1910

Make the trumpet sound throughout all your land. — Lev. 25:9.
The Pastor, Deacons. Trustees, and Every Member of

St. Paul’s Baptist Church of Bladensburg, Md.,

take special delight in extending a cordial invitation to ALL
to join them in celebrating their year of Jubilee during
the entire month of October next, every Sunday,

A. M. and P. M., also every Thursday P. M., as
usual, there will be Religious Services con¬
ducted by the various auxiliaries of

the church.

Souvenir Programs Will Be Issued Early

One great desire of I lie Church is that this Jubilee shall be
A Grand Home Coming for the Remnant of all the families
and their friends who have been blessed by its presence here.

Be it known that not only the Churches of whatever faith
of our Historic Town and Vicinity, hut all Churches of Wash¬
ington. D. C., and Baltimore, especially those presided over
by ministers of the Baptist Union, are urged to worship with
us at least once. Each cal! to worship shall he short (one and
a half hours), but interesting.

The old building (1718). nearly 200 years old. was burned
in 1907, rebuilt the next year at a cost of more than $5,000.
Just five vears thereafter, the Lord, through you. enabled us
to r>nv otV that large debt. Won’t vou come, and help us
render suitable praise for such Wondrous Work? We want
to thank you in person on “The Old Camp Ground.”

All members are requested to make their Jubilee offer
NOW. as the officers wish to have all needed repairs done
before the arrival of our Guests in October.

Although our gifts mav amount to more than $100. the
CHIEF AIM of the Church is that we shall have gained 50
members this vear (25 of whom art' already enrolled), unless
the Lord should say: “There shall be 50 x 50 souls added.”

>n ■ cr.w .Mo vhimt .(8KJ) finihliud Mo or(T

. " IA Ml VHf J l I 1 1( I M .S^fl HI

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>/m r. mi morfw 1o unv *irl| ^odirnfo

OUT OF TIIF DEPTHS, OR

376

During these 50 years “The Lord has done great things
whereof we arc glad! O come and see that the Lord is good.
His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endureth to all gen¬
erations !”

REV. G. G. MILLS, Pastor

MRS. SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER- JOHNSON,

Church Clerk.

The late SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER-CLARK, Founder.

This Church began in a prayer-meeting, October 19th,
1866, in the home of Adam F. Plummer, on Clias. R. Cal¬
vert’s estate, Riverdale, Md.

(Generals O. O. Howard, Whitlesev, and Balloeh conceived
of the founding of Howard Universitv, — which was chartered
March 2, 1867,-- in a prayer-meeting. — Dr. Patton.)

1866 OCTOBER 1916

FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY
Or The Golden Jubilee of

SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH, Bladcnsburg, Maryland
OLD CHURCH.— Built 1718. Bought by us 1873.

Seven Original Members. Set apart in 1867 from Second
Baptist Church, Washington, D. C., by Rev. Sandy Alex¬
ander: Henry V. Plummer, Camilla Morris, Julia Lo¬
max, Emily S. Plummer, Samuel Clark, Elias Q. Plum¬
mer, Fannie Mason, Sarah Miranda Plummer-I toward.
Founder.

NEW CHURCH. — As rebuilt in 1908, by Rev. Charles Cush-
ingberry, D. I).

“Zion stands with hills surrounded —

Happy Zion!

What a favored lot is thine!”

Pastor: Rev. G. G. MILLS.

A few Predecessors: 1st Pastor, Chaunccy Leonard;
2nd Pastor, Augustus Watts; 3rd Pastor, H. V. Plummer; 1th
Pastor, Win. M. Alexander; 5th Pastor, F. G. Hall (Friend,
Brother, Teacher, and Advisor); T. J. Houston; G. W. M.
Lucas; Broadus McDonald; (’has. Cushingberrv.

Friends of Zion: Rev. Sandy Alexander, Rev. W. Bishop
Johnson, Rev. W. J. Howard, Rev. ,1. Milton Waldron, Rev.
D. F. Rivers, Rev. Walter 11. Brooks, Solomon Pollard, and a
host of others.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

377

NOTE. — The secret of the success of this Zion God hid
in a wonderful power, a personality, a fountain as it were,
who so trained and watered and fostered her sons and daugh¬
ters, and grand-children morally, intellectually, and spiritually,
until Zion can never die while Jesus lives. I refer to tiie
great Dr. G. M. P. King, who expects to help us “Crown Him
Lord of All!”

A friend and brother. — Col. R. F. Bingham.

“Mother” Eliza Smallwood, of precious memory.

REV. G. G. MILLS, Pastor

“Not for long life, Not for riches, But for Wisdom to
lead The people by Thy Spirit.”

PRESENT OFFICERS

Deacons: Phillip Broome, Rudolph Plummer, Clarence
Moss, Charles Wheeler, William Burke. Prince Kent.

Our Honored Dead: Jesse Bumbry, Richard Holland,
Edward Minor, H. V. Plummer, R. C. Moss, N. S. Plummer.

Trustees: Joseph Dunnington, Prince Stubbs, Daniel
Fortune, The late Prof. John Harvey Wigginton, Rev. F. G.
Hall.

Sunday School: Miss Eliza B. Wheeler. Superintendent,
Sunday School; and President, Christian Endeavor.

Missionary Society: Caroline Wheeler-Broome. Presi¬
dent, succeeding our beloved The late Dr. Mattie V. S. Lee.

Temperance Society: Nellie A. Plummer, President;
Winnie Whecler-Burkc, Secretary.

Church Clerk: Sarah Miranda Plummcr-.Tohnson. John
II. Moss, of Philadelphia, served faithfully during first half
of fifty years.

Church Aid: Ida Plummer-Johnson, President.

Organists: N. A. PI
leaders of sacred music, E.

unimer, 1. S. P. Johnson. First
O. Plummer and Jesse Bumbrv.

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.'lo* im! 1 m la; .it ) ,Jnobi;mfI bun ;loorb& v* bnifS

■

ralaimityiO

378

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

PROGRAM

Sunday, October 1st — 11:30 A. M., Communion.

Sunday, October 1st — 8:00 P. M., Anniversary Sermon by the
Pastor, Rev. G. G. Mills.

Thursday, October 5th — 8 P. M., Deacons’ Prayer Meeting.
Sunday, October 8th — 2:30 P. M., Gathering of the children.

‘ ‘And a little child shall lead them.” — Joel 1:3.

Thursday, October 12th — 8:00 P. M., Trustees’ Prayer Meet-

mg.

Sunday, October 15th — 11 :30 A. M., Sermon by Rev. G. W. M.
Lucas.

Sunday, October 15th — 8:00 P. M., Sermon by Rev. Charles
Cushingbcrry.

Thursday, October 19th — 8:00 P. M., Fiftieth Anniversary
Hour of Prayer, led by Nellie A. Plummer and Robert
F. Plummer, who were present at the first Prayer Meet¬
ing.

Sunday, October 22nd — 11:30 A. M., Sermon bv Dr. G. M. P.
King.

Sunday, October 22nd — 8:00 P. M., Sermon by Rev. J. W.
Porter.

Thursday, October 26th — 8:00 P. M., Sunday School called
to prayer.

Sunday, October 29th — 11:30 A. M., Sermon by Rev. J. L.
Jasper.

Sunday, October 29th — 8:00 P. M., Sermon by Rev. Chas. W.
McCauley.

Thursday, November 2nd— 8:00 P. M., Union Prayer Meeting,
led by the Pastor.

Sunday, November 5 1 li — 11 :30 A. M., Communion.

Sunday, November 5 1 1 i -8:00 P. M., Sermon by Rev. J. N.
Beaman.

.7/ ,?.m j • d i 3 . !•' rt 00:8 HOi. >.i< :oO .v» !mu2

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

379

SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER-CLARK
Founder of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Bladensburg, Md.,

October 19th, 186(5

A woman with a mission — “To sing, pray and call dying
sinners.” “With heavenly weapons I have fought. The battle
of the Lord.”

H. V. PLUMMER

Pioneer, leader, protector, deacon, pastor and founder
of the Bladensburg Union. Chaplain 9th U. S. Cavalry.

(R. C. Moss, first candidate baptized of this field. Jesse Bum¬
bry and family brought great light and help.)

HEAVENLY WEAPONS
Prayer and Song —

1. Go preach my gospel. 2. Awake, my soul to joyful
lays. 3. How firm a foundation. 4. The good old way.
f>. Hark, my soul, it is the Lord. 6. Jerusalem, my happy
home. 7. There is a fountain filled with blood. 8. Amazing
grace, how sweet the sound. 9. Must Jesus bear the cross
alone? 10. Am I a soldier of the cross? 11. Blow ye the
trumnet, blow. 12. When I can read my title clear.

“And Jesus, when he was Baptized, went up straightway
out of the water, and lo a voice from Heaven saying: this is
my beloved son in whom I am well pleased.”

“Go in peace and sin no more.”

1866 • OCTOBER 1916

REPORT OF THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF
SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH
Bladensburg, Maryland, May 3, 1917

RECEIPTS

Orchestra Music, Donated by Bro. Robt. F. Plummer, $20.00

160 Souvenir Programs . . . . . 16.00

20 Souvenir Programs, Bro. Charles T. Mitchell . 2.00

Church Aid Fund, per Deacon Broome . 22.00

Mr. Wm. O. Lee, Donation . . . . . 3.00

Mr. Wm. Thomas, Donation . j .50

Mr. Edward Gasch, Donation . . . . . 5.00

After-collection, November 5, 1916 . 91

20 Programs to Sister Ellen Johnson, due . 2.00

Balance of Expenses . . . 6.26

Total, $77.67

380

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

EXPENDITURES

Orchestra Music, October 8, 1016 _

Hymnals _ _ _

Expressage _ _ _ _ _

Banners _ ... _ _ _

Memorial Names _

200 Souvenir Programs _

500 Circulars _

$20.00
11.70
. .47

6.00
2.00
35.00
2.50

Total, $77.67

To the glory of God, and in loving memory of our Golden
Jubilee, Fiftieth Anniversary or Semi-Centennial.

NELLIE A. PLUMMER, Chairman.

The loving kindness with which everv one worked and
sacrificed to make our Fiftieth Anniversary a success, cannot
he estimated in dollars and cents!

The Lord, even our own God, showed His approval and
blessing bv overshadowing us with showers of the llolv Ghost,
even six months before.

Yours, In His Name,

NELLIE ARNOLD PLUMMER, Chairman.

Mav 3, 1917.

k r

OUR CHURCH HOME

October 19, 1866 — Adam F. Plummer’s house (3 vears),
Riverdale, Md.

1869 to 1870— Log Cabin, Anderson Street, near Railroad.
Hyatlsvillc, Md.

* . 1870 to 1873 — “The Rabbit Gum” (so small), *Bladens-
■ burg, Md. * :

1873 — Bought present Church property from white Pres¬
byterians. (Brick building, Baden Street, Bladensburg, Md.

COMMITTEE

GOLDEN

(October 19, 1916)

JUBILEE

LIE A.

REV. G. G.
PLUMMER,

MILLS, Chairman, Ex-Officio.
Organist, Chairman.

O YpT .

m • 1 1 i J Li

(0101 .fit TxiuloO)

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

381

DEACONS

3. Phillip Broome, 4. Rudolph Plummer, 5. Clarence Moss,
(j. Charles Wheeler, 7. William Burke, 8. Prince Kent.

TRUSTEES

9. Joseph Dunnington, 10. Prince Stubbs, 11. Daniel Fortune.

12. Eliza R. Wheeler, Superintendent S. S. and President C. E.

13. Caroline Wheeler Broome, President Missionary Society.

14. Winnie Wheeler Burke. Secretary T. S.

15. Ida Plummer Johnson, President C. A. and Asst. Organist.

10. Robert S. Plummer, Member of Orchestra and Trumpeter.

17. Dr. Robert F. Plummer, Soloist, a loving Brother.

18. Chas. T. Mitchell, Financial Supporter, Temperance Lec¬

turer.

19. Fannie Harris Plummer, A Friend Indeed.

20. Lula Moss Welch, Missionary.

21. Nellie Plummer Moss, A Musician.

22. Bessie May Beaman, dutiful, obedient, loving Worker.

23. Maggie Plummer Brown. Willing Worker.

21. Rey. II. T. Gaskins, Inspired Worker.

25. Sarah Miranda Plummer Johnson. Church Clerk.

SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH, Bladensburg. Md.

DEAR CHURCH: May 3, 1917.

It is our sincere prayer and wish that this committee of
twenty-live shall stand, serving each succeeding Anniversary,
from now until the Centennial of our beloved Church. That
is, as soon as the place of one of these becomes vacant, may
it be the duty of the Church at its next business meeting (or

as soon as possible), to fill such vacancy.

* •» *

This is done to the Glory of God. and for the purpose of
winning precious souls for II is Kingdom.

Yours in Everlasting Fellowship.

NELLIE ARNOLD PLUMMER,

1 lumhle Chairman.

382

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OH

I860 OCTOBER 1918

Oh! Give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good;

for His mercy endureth forever.

FIFTIETI I-SECOND ANNIVERSARY

SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH, Bladenshurg, Md.

OCTOBER 13TH to NOVEMBER 3RD, INCLUSIVE

The Pastor, Deacons, Deaconesses, Trustees, and Every
Member of this our Zion, take special delight in extending
a cordial invitation to all, to come and join with us in praising
the Master.

IF ON THE LORD'S SIDE TESTIFY!

PROGRAM
Sunday, October 13th

11:00 A. M. — Thirty-minute praise service, led by Deaconess

Winnie Burke, assisted by Deaconess N. B.
Chinn.

11:30 A. M. — Sermon by Pastor.

7:30 P. M. — Song service, under auspices of the Christian

Endeavor Society, Miss E. B. Wheeler, Presi¬
dent. Deaconess I. S. Johnson, Organist.

8:00 P. M. — Sermon by Rev. F. J. Oscar.

Thursday, October 17th. — Anniversary Prayer Meeting, led

by Deacon William Burke, assisted by every
Deacon and Deaconess.

Sunday, October 20th

10:30 A. M. to 12 noon. — Special services by the Sunday

School, Miss E. B. Wheeler, Superintendent.
Song Service led by Deaconess I. S. Johnson,
assisted by Mrs. Lucille Walker.

Prayer Service for the children led by Deacon¬
ess S. M. P. Johnson.

— Special Praise Service led by Senior Deacon
Phillip Broome, assisted by Deacons: Charles
Wheeler, Clarence Moss, Rudolph Plummer,
Eli jali Gadson, and William E. Burke.

3:00 P. M.

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

383

3:30 P. M. — Installation of Pastor.

Master of Ceremonies — Rev. D. E. Wiseman.
Hymn — Rev. G. W. M. Lucas.

Prayer — Rev. George W. Brent.

Scripture — Rev. E. T. Broadus.

Sermon — Rev. .1. I. Loving, D. D.

Right Hand of Fellowship — Rev. W. J. How¬
ard, D. D.

Charge to Church — Rev. W. D. Jarvis, D. D.
Charge to Pastor — Rev. J. L. S. Holloman.
Welcome Address— Rev. Jasper.

Hymn — Rev. J. N. Beaman.

Benediction — Rev. Charles Cushingberrv.

O V

Thursday, October 21th. — Special Prayer Meeting, led by

Deaconess Carrie Broome, President of Mis¬
sionary Society, assisted by every Deaconess.
Sunday, October 27th

11:00 A. M. — Thirty minutes Praise Service, led by Trustee

Joseph Dunnington, assisted by Trustee John
T. Wilson.

11:30 A. M. — Sermon, Rev. J. N. Beaman.

7:00 P. M. — Song Service under auspices of Christian En¬
deavor Society.

8:00 P. M. — Grand Union Temperance Meeting, under the

auspices of the Bladenslnirg W. C. T. U., Miss
N. A. Plummer, President.

Thursday, October 31st

8:00 P. M. — Special Prayer Meeting, led by Deacon Charles

Wheeler.

Sunday, November 3rd

11:00 A. M. — Thirtv minutes Praise Service, led by Deacon

* •*

Rudolph Plummer, assisted by Deacon Clar¬
ence Moss.

11:30 A. M. — Sermon. Pastor, followed by Lord’s Supper.
8:00 P. M. — Praise Service, led by Dr. R. F. Plummer.

8:30 P. M. — Sermon, Pastor.

REV. II. T. GASKINS, Pastor.

MRS. SARAH M. P. JOHNSON, Church Clerk.

.lol. r.l .RWUtfAD T .If V3fl

381

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

I860

OCTOBER

192G

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to
dwell together in unity. — Psalm 133.

O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for Ilis
mercy endureth forever.

Let the redeemed of the Lord sav so! — Psalm 107.

SIXTIETH ANNIVERSARY

SAINT PAUL’S BAPTIST CHURCH
Bladen sburg, Maryland

Sunday, October 3rd, to Sunday, November 7th. inclusive, 1020
SIXTY YEARS OF PRAYER AND PRAISE

Circumstances, over which we have no control, prevent
us from celebrating our SIXTIETH ANNIVERSARY as be¬
come “Children of the Light.”

However, it is our purpose to let all we do or say so
magnify the Lord, that many shall he won in His name, and
that His Church shall he ever mindful of His goodness during
these Three Score Years!

Our Church began in a Prayer-Meeting Friday night, Oc¬
tober 10, L800, at Riverdale, Maryland, in Adam F. Plummer’s
house.

On Sunday. October 17. 1020. we hope to “Lift Him Up”
as never before, both morning and night, as well as in Sun-
dav School, at 10:00 A. M., and Christian Endeavor, at 7:00
P. M.

EVERY AUXILIARY of the Church is not onlv urged,
but expected to attend every meeting, especially on the Third
Sunday.

Besides Sundav Services, you will find the Praver-Mcet-
ing. Thursdav nights, at 8:30. sham, a “Live Wire,” indeed!
Bible School from 7 to 8:30. Thursday nights.

Songs and Anthems wilt precede every service for a half
hour.

Come thou with us, and we will do thee good.” — Numbers
10:29.

i i - i i c - i.i

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

385

COMMITTEE

(After Three Score Years, October 19, 1926).

1. The late Sarah Miranda Plummer-Howard-Clark, Founder.

2. Rev. John T. Rrooks, Chairman Ex-Officio, Acting Pastor.

3. Nellie A. Plummer, Chairman.

4. Phillip M. Rroome, Chairman, Deacon Roard.

5. Carrie W. Rroome, Chairman, Deaconesses.

6. Joseph Dunnington, Chairman, Trustees.

7. William E. Burke, Chairman, Prayer Meeting.

8. N. Beatrice P. Chinn, Director of Choir.

9. Eliza R. Wheeler, Supt., S. S., and President, C. E.

10. Katie C. Plummer, President, Missionary Circle.

11. Ida S. P. Burke, President, Church Aid, and Organist.

12. Ellen Johnson, President, Willing Workers.

13. Ilattie Moss-Fortune, Secretary, Willing Workers.

1 1. Paul Jere Johnson, President, Usher Board.

15. Arthur F. Chinn, President, Young Men’s Club.

16. Jesse James, Jr., Vice-President, Young Men’s Club.

17. Sarah Miranda Plummer-Johnson, Church Clerk.

REV. G. W. LUCAS— Oor Pastor. 1900-1905.

A Friend and Urother, — a Splendid Representative of the Great Lucas family.

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

380

A WOMAN WITH A MISSION

SARAH MIRANDA PLUMMER-HOWARD-CLARK

Founder of St. Paul’s Baptist Church. Bladensburg, Maryland,

October 19th, 1866.

“With Heavenly weapons I have fought
The battles of the Lord.”

LAST CHAPTER

Come now, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole
matter: Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is
the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work
into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good,
or whether it be evil.”

The New Testament Church has always suffered perse¬
cution, from the fact that there is hostility between purity and
impurity, and faith and unbelief. Ii is impossible for the
people of God to be in harmony with a sin-loving and Christ-
haling world. Jesus said: “If ye were of the world, the
world would love its own; but because ye are not of the
world, but 1 have chosen you out of the world, therefore,

• the world hateth you.”

Our Savior suffered the greatest persecution. We can¬
not hope to escape, “For the servant is not greater than his
Lord.” When persecution arises against the saints it always
binds them closer together. God turns it into blessing, and
uses it to prevent dissensions and divisions. Adversity awak¬
ens love. When our Church building burned, while we were
so hopelessly divided, as we thought, many said we could not
survive. But adversity awakened love.

We saw that to win, each must forgive. By 1912, we
were normal. By 1910, the Holy Spirit was poured upou
us. We had learned “Greater is He that is in you than he
that is in the world.” I John 1:1. To fellowship hypocrit¬
ical professors is to be a partaker of their sins. No one can
do so and keep unspotted from the world. We learned from
that struggle that the demand is for heroic warriors, for
those who will storm the forts of evil and plant the Banner
of the Cross on the heights of victory. Praise God, there are
yet a few persons on whom He can depend.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

387

A slight acquaintance with the world must convince
every man, that actions not words arc the true criterion of
our attachment as friends of Zion.

We, as co-workers in the Master's vineyard, standing on
one platform, recognizing God as our Father, Jesus, our Sa¬
vior, man, our common brother, working for one common
interest, namely, l lie advancement of the Master’s Kingdom,
can in no other way give expression to these ideals than
through our fellowship one for another. Our lives must say:
“This is the way to immortality.”

“Arise, ye soldiers of the Cross, The battle we must
wage; The hosts of sin arc pressing hard. And demons round
us rage; Unfurl the Banner of the Cross, And wield the sword
of truth. And give to (rod your time and strength. While in
the bloom of youth.”

Mother Miranda taught us that ingratitude is a base sin.
That we must he grateful to God and to our fellowmen.
Though unlearned herself (hut mighty in the Spirit), she
early saw the influence Or. G. M. P. King had on her work.
That II. V. and E. Q. Plummer, Alexander, Bishop Johnson,
Simmons, Hall, and scores of others could have helped us
but very little, but for Prof. King’s training. Now that we
can weigh matters a little, we are forced to say with Sister
Miranda, that all of our progress, especially intellectually, is
due to that one great man. We have also learned to be
grateful not only to Or. King, but to the least one who brings
“a cup of cold water in His name.”

God is not dependent upon any individual or class. He
proves His word to be true by putting down the mighty from
their seats, and exalting those of low degree (Luke 1:52).
Thus the women of our Church have ever played a valiant
part. It takes heroism to wage a spiritual warfare. In the
history of our Church, God has used the weak and foolish
things to confound the mighty, and thus lie gets the glory,
which otherwise man would have taken to himself (I Cor. 1:
2f>-29). We realize that each person is captain of his own
fate, is master of his own soul.

John, the Baptist, on the banks of the Jordan, sent his
lightning bolts of truth to the hearts of the hypocritical Phar-
asees, who claimed to be children of Abraham. This rugged

#fi jibiol or!) lo i'/liififl odl no firfl .mloL

388

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OH

preacher of (he desert, the forerunner of Christ, was even
then opening the way for woman's missions. John showed
them that God was not dependent upon them, — “For God was
able of the stones to raise lip children unto Abraham.”

John knew when he preached against Herod's wife, he
might be killed for it. Hut lie did not hesitate to call white
white, black black, right right, and wrong wrong! All this
we have been taught by our Mother Church. I hold there is
no “uncertain.” light it is either light or darkness; it is true
or false.

His message of Repentance demanded that they should
repent in such a thorough way that the results of their
changed minds would appear in their transformed conduct.
This is the sort of repentance that proves itself genuine.
When the new ideal gets into daily practice, we may be sure
that we have genuine sorrow for sin. John's rebuke for pre¬
tence struck the verv center of their trouble. Thev had hug-
ged to their hearts the fact that they were descendants of
Abraham. Now they were brought sharply to face the fact
that the Almighty has no favorites of this sort. The problem
of righteousness concerned their puritv of heart, and honor
of motive. These self-righteous men were in the habit of
thinking that any one who did not belong to their class,, or
conform to their custom was an outcast and a sinner. John
wished them to know that those whom they despised had in
them capacities which God could use for the service to which
they themselves were recreant.

What, then, shall we do? The question is inevitable.
It is impossible to see a new vision of truth without trying in
some way to express it. The importance of the Raptist’s
counsel lies in its character. The man who was slingv was
to share his possessions with those who needed. The grafter
must slop stealing. The soldier was not to leave his work,
but to put a new spirit in it. The most immoral of all im¬
moralities is hatred, lie .walled spiritual ideals, but it was
equally imperative that the practical duty should be found
to match it. To my mind the Modern Ghurch has no liner
expression of the true relation of every follower of Christ to
bis Mas lei than we find in this statement hv .John of the pur¬
pose ot his lile. He is the servant who is not worthy to untie
the lacings of his Master's sandals; yet he has his own work.

Off t l)ii i/w 'Wi oT

: 1( if *J ? . J . :l rr hn'l • tf m 't k \\

tiip: triumph of tiie cross

389

is conscious of its value, is ready to perform it with supreme
loyally to the last. Snap John’s picture of Jesus: The win¬
nower of wheat whose fan separates the chaff from the grain!
This is what the character of Jesus is constantly doing, as it
tests men hv the relation that they sustain toward him. Is it
too much to say that those who accept Christ as their Master
and Lord are the true wheat of modern life; and those who
reject him are the chaff ? In actual experience, is not this an
accurate description? Men and women whose lives are ruled
by the purposes of Jesus a. re the persons in the community
who give it food and life.

We cannot preach like Paul for lack of training, but we
are each one a modern John the Raptist crying: "‘Repent ye,
for the Kingdom of Cod is in vou.” This we mav know
if we are not mercenary, vengeful nor vindicative. Few of
us may escape the jealousy, scorn, hatred, and pride of evil
doers. Here let me relate a story from “The Man of Sor¬
rows.” — “I would Kiss Thy Lips.” Now it came to pass that
John the Baptist, the strong, the fearless, the virile, came up
out of the wilderness, crying in the streets of Jerusalem:
“Repent ye! Repent ye!” She (Salome), pushed through the
crowd and placed herself near file man, so the smell of her
body would reach his nostrils. Ilis eves ranged the swelling
lines of her bodv. Their eves met. She half smiled and gave
him that look which has snared the soul of many another.

He turned aside, and forgot her. as he continued his warn¬
ing cry, and went his way. The next day, she waylaid the
youth again; as he came near, she suddenly and softly stepped
forth and said in that same, low, purring voice: *T would kiss
thy lips.” He repulsed her with scorn. She threw her arms
about him and sought to draw his head down near hers. He
pushed her from him with sinewy hands, sprang as from a
pestilence, and was lost in the pressing throng.

That night she danced before Herod Anlipas, and when
the promise was recalled that she could have anything she
wished, she named the head of the only man who bad ever
turned away from her — “The head of John the Raptist on a
charger.”

In an hour the wish was gratified. Two cunochs stood
before Salome with a silver tray bearing its fearsome burden.

1 he woman smiled, a smile of triumph, as she stepped forth

♦

390 OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

with tinkling feet. A look of pride came over her painted
face.

Her jeweled fingers reached into the blood-matted hair.
She lifted the head aloft, and the bracelets on her brown,
bare arms fell to her shapely shoulders, making strange
music. Her face pressed the face of the dead. In exultation
she exclaimed: “I have kissed thy lips.”

Thus the hatred of Salome, and her mother, Herodias, put
an end to that noble life, here. But his works do follow him,
“The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are
cleansed, the deaf hear, the* dead are raised up, and the poor
have the gospel preached unto them.”

O, Brother John the Baptist, why wouldn’t we of this
day gladly toil and suffer, if Jesus will let us walk and talk
with Him! If He, the Prince of Peace, could say of us as
He said of you — “Yerilv, 1 sav unto vou, Among them that
are born of women, there has not risen a greater than John
the Baptist!”

The Pharasces supposed God could not endorse anything

or any movement which they did not approve, hut the Baptist

uncovered their hypocrisy, as he cried: “0, ye generation of

vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?”

This was savor of life unto life to those who received it.

Mother Miranda taught us, as the Baptist did in his day, that

Christ must increase and we must decrease. Her great object

as was his to keep the people's eyes looking toward Christ.

and not toward herself. This is whv so manv fail todav. If

» » »

they have been blessed with success, sufficient to bring them
before the public, or to give them a little notoriety, they
become inflated with pride. They seek the approval of men,
and a complete failure is the result. “The pride of thine
heart hath deceived thee . . . that saith in his heart:
Who shall bring me down to the ground.” Though thou
exalt thyself as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among
the stars, thence will 1 bring thee down. (Obad. 1:3. 1). I
want to prove ours is a New Testament Church. On the day
of Pentecost, Peter stood up boldlv and said: “This is that
which was spoken by the prophet. Joel: ‘And it shall come to
pass . . . saith God, l will pour out my Spirit upon all

flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophecy . . .
and on my handmaidens I will pour out of mv Spirit.” So
in our Church women have always found a work to do.

'lolrtyunb TMciy l>nft p/toa ujov bn* tilaoR

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

391

Where her work is suppressed, the Holy Spirit withdraws.
The Evangelist, Philip, had four daughters, who preached
and prophesied. Thus, through Melchizedec, Christ, or the
new covenant, both men and women arc invited into the sanc¬
tum sanctorum. The new covenant says: “Love your neigh¬
bor as yourself.” Hence it must no longer be asked: “What
are these wounds in thine hands7” Then He shall answer:
“Those with which I was wounded in the house of my
friends” (Zech. 13:6). But if we do sin. let us agree with
Job 34:32: “If I have done iniquity, I will do no more.”
May we forever hear our Father saying: “I am the Lord, I
change not; therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
Thus will we confess our sins, and seek forgiveness. No per¬
son, either man or woman, can keen salvation after he is
converted, if lie fails to pray, and testify, and try to get others
saved. He must use his tongue for God, or backslide. The
Methodists (John Wesley), saw this and started the class
meeting. The Baptists saw it and started the covenant meet¬
ing.

Neither to man nor woman is there any law against:
love, jov, peace. long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
meekness, and temperance. They are the fruit of the Spirit.
Hence the Kingdom of God is within us. Each one must
obtain for himself for each has t lie blessed privilege.

We believe there are those divinely healed in answer
to prayer (James 5:14-16), for Christ is a Great Physician,
a sympathizing Jesus. How could we doubt Christ's second
coming? More than three hundred times it is mentioned in
the New Testament. It is the polar star of the Church, and
the hope of everv believer. Manv times I’ve heard Frederick
Dounlass sing as he and his grandson, Joseph, nlaved the vio¬
lin: “Jesus, my Savior shall come from on high. Sweet is the
promise as wearv years flv. O. I shall see Him descending
the sky. Coming for me, for me!”

We believe marriage is a divine institution, and deplore
the divorce and remarriage customs of today. There can’t
be one law for the rich and another for the poor in this mat¬
ter, any more than one law for white people and a lack of
law for black people that will insure peace. For Christ’s is
a gospel of peace.

392

OUT OF TIIK DFPTIIS, OR

We believe that the divorce and remarriage evil is like
a huge monster destroying the vitals of social, civil, and spir¬
itual life. The family and the Church are the two pillars
upon which rests the keystone of society and state. Chris¬
tians should grow more and more like Jesus, for many times
arc we baptized with the Holy Ghost. We believe in the
immortality of the soul, the Judgments, and the Church as
Christ's bride, therefore, should he blameless. We believe
in water baptism, by immersion, and Spirit baptism of the
soul.

We treasure the Sacrement of the Lord’s Supper. “This
do in remembrance of me.” When lie washed 1 1 is disciples’
feet, He taught us that honor seats in His Kingdom are ser¬
vants’ benches.

Mother Miranda hated falsehood and preicnce worse than
all other faults. She would not have it said of us: “This
people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth and honoreth
me with their lips; hut their heart is far from me.” So the
spirit of good will in the heart will conquer all evil. “The
Spirit of Good Will,” by Rev. Zimmerman, illustrates this
thought :

THE SPIRIT OF GOOD WILL

“Good Will’ is worth more than a hank account. Man
may restore lost health, wealth or knowledge, hut he cannot
afford lo lose “Good Will;” neither the good will of others
for himself nor his good will toward others. If this is true
of man to man, how much more is it true of man’s relation¬
ship with God’ I am pleading for the spirit of good will
and peace on earth, because all of us on this earth are of one
family, the human race, and under obligation to Almighty
God, the Father of all.

We have been drawn closely together by forces outside
ot us. The spearaling oceans have become uniting seas as
the geography of distance has been destroyed. Even the
most remote nation has become our neighbor. The steam¬
ship, the airship, the radio, has made communication be¬
tween the members of the great family a matter of days, aye,
even ol minutes. Man takes credit for these achievements,
hut he should remember the message of the first telegram,
between Baltimore and Washington: “What hath God

•

393

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

wrought?” God, our Heavenly Father, is drawing us closer
to each other into one great family. Whether we will or not,
we must live even with our remotest neighbors, as part of
the great family of humanity.

As a nation, America should he a leader and molder of
international reconciliation, leading other countries by the
paths of peace and good will to a more brotherly interest in
world affairs.

Upon just what basis that relationship should consist,
many may differ, hut all must surely agree that the spirit of
good will should rule, whether among nations, organizations
or individuals.

Rig business in commercial circles conducts its affairs
through different departments under one organization. Al¬
though each department may be interested in only a certain
part of the business, nevertheless all are co-ordinated and
co-operation to one end.

When the citizens of our country came to the aid of the
Government and by united effort quickly financed our armies
and enabled this nation to help the cause of the Allies, the
World War was easily won. If that proved true in war,
why not in peace? With conferences and the spirit of “get-
together” many controversies and conflicts might be averted
and, with patience and intelligence, even wars with their hor¬
rors and miseries might be avoided.

The public press, properly used, can do much toward
the elimination of hatred. Many persons are filled with ex¬
citement and prejudice, and are easily keyed up to the proud
conviction: “I can lick the other fellow.” The less, there¬
fore, that is said about minor differences, the more likely
people are inclined to go quietly about their business, with
good will toward men.

The words of St. Paul are applicable today as they were
when he wrote them. “Whether one member suffer, all the
members suffer with it, or one member be honored, all the
members rejoice with it.” One diseased member of the hu¬
man body alfects all the other members, and the same law
holds true in a large measure regarding the many members
of the great family of God. To this end no one has a right
to criminally trample down, destroy or cheat another. Nor
can any one he justified in making money dishonestly this
week that he may give part of it next week to the Lord.

.no// env/ i/;7/ folio 7/

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

591

Christianity is more than a set of doctrines; it is a life
that must be lived up to. All public questions of equity, lib¬
erty, justice, purity, intelligence, should be vitalized by the
power and teachings of our Lord. You cannot enroll “Dives"
as a brother when be is inhuman to Lazarus lying sick a starv¬
ing at bis doorside, even though that “Dives" have an open
Bible in bis band. Bv the same reasoning vou cannot call
a religious leader a man of Ciod if lie devours widow’s houses,
even if be makes pretense of Godliness by long prayer from
pulpit or pew on the Lord’s Day.

We bear a great deal these days about the “Golden Rule”
but, before there can be a proper observance of that rule,
there must in many instances first be a moral house-cleaning
in the hearts of the people. Neither laws, nor force nor leg¬
islature can of themselves effect a cure for the disease of a
selfish or envious heart.

The spirit of good will recognizes the fact that to stand
on the same level does not necessarily mean equality. Most
of the great men and women of today became so not only be¬
cause they, like all others, were born for a purpose, but be¬
cause they brought their tools to God and were willing to be
used. Through struggle and working overtime, we attain
unto victory. And too, there arc always openings for high
salaried men who can earn a profit on the salary they re¬
ceive. The man who is bigger than bis job will soon get a
better position.

There are those in various organizations, vocations, and
callings, who go about complaining they do not get all they
are worth. Such of course, rarely have good will for others
or arc ever satisfied.

The greatest differences lie in the souls of men, and with¬
in the soul is a power which, if properly directed, lifts man
above the ordinary elements of nature and life’s environ¬
ments. Man. however, must first begin by using the God-
given soul power to control bis natural appetites and passions.
Such persons, making triumphant life struggles, not only
bear in their hearts <food will towards others, but are them¬
selves happy because their souls are right. Their income

TIIE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

395.

may be modest, their homes humble but, with a conscience
void of offense toward God and man. they go to the office,
or market, or factory, or about the home, with a song in
the heart. And that song is worth more than the wisdom
and wealth of the dissatisfied.

When but a boy in a Virginia school house, George Wash¬
ington wrote in a copy book: “Labor to preserve in your
bosom the spark of Heavenly lire we call conscience/’ And,
only as this same spirit is embodied in our corporate life
can we hope for economic peace, social purity, political in¬
tegrity, and lasting greatness.

What people universally need is proper thinking on things
that arc pure, honest, just and of good report. The thought
of many is being centered wholly upon worldly riches and
pleasure. God is being crowded out of t be home and busi¬
ness. Even many of his professed followers have “no room’’
for Him in their daily lives. Before there can be real refor¬
mation, something ethically creative must first get into men's
minds and hearts. Many cry, “Peace, peace,” when there is
no peace. Peace is a gift of God who says: “My peace I give
unto you,” and when all persons have that Divine Peace within
them, they naturally will be disposed to have good will toward
others. We may have peace conferences, resolutions, ex¬
change of repealed “notes,” until the birds chant them as
music, but they will be nothing more than “scraps of paper”
until men’s hearts and minds are changed and a right spirit
renewed within them. God alone is the remedy for the
world’s ills. The Heavenly Father alone can give peace unto
His earthly family. Only when the people become righteous
will there be the final establishment of peace and good will
toward men. The world is not economic or commercial; it is
moral; and “righteousness exaltcth the nation.”

Since of one blood God made all nations, we are, there¬
fore, not only our brother’s keeper, but our brother’s brother
among whom there should be no contention save that high
and noble contention as to who can best serve and best agree.
Abraham Lincoln put it aptly, “With malice toward none
and charity toward all.” Better still, our Blessed Lord said:
“Love the Lord, thy God, and love thy neighbor.”

• ! i

OUT OF THE DEPTHS. OH

That which the world needs today is not a new Theology
but a new heart and a right spirit, for, if people arc going
to live together through eternity, they might as well begin
now, magnifying what they have in common. Heaven has
no place for hatred, and hell is already overcrowded.

We thank God for the spirit of Rrothcrhood that is
manifested among so many, for it is one of the greatest
treasures of our country. It is true there arc many things
that are not as they should be. but the great current of busi¬
ness in our country is honest and it is conducted by men
who not onlv have confidence in good will, but show that
good will toward each other. These are they who arc willing
to play fair, on the level and squarely. They endeavor to
understand, as they look at each other with a fair vision and
an unprejudiced mind. Strikes are never popular among
such employers and employees. The various clubs, in which
Jew and Gentile, Catholic and Protestant, mingle as brethren,
are doing so much toward eliminating misunderstanding be¬
tween men, and arc uniting their forces more and more as
good citizens, both for God and their country.

If the average man would study himself more and slan¬
der others less, there would he good will on earth between
individuals, corporations and nations. It is much easier to
criticise one's superiors than it is to produce and originate
the equals. Because a spot may have been shown upon an
orange is no reason for concluding the whole fruit is bad.

A man of character will never vilify even those he de¬
spises, but weak, despicable partisans and designing “rabble-
rousers” will broadcast a poisonous rumor not only of the
living but even of the dead, and think they arc thereby per¬
forming a “public duty.” There is particular contempt for
one who so debases himself as to “look under a shroud” for
a something somewhere” of a slanderous story, an imaginary
hidden skeleton or a baseless rumor, then spread it broad¬
cast when the dead are no longer here to defend themselves
either by word or law. And yet, poisonous rumors scattered
by an evil longue, dealing falsely with the living is even
more disastrous for the victim has often to live under a hand¬
icap or die a premature death. A strong man can live down
false insinuations and present an honest face to the world,
but his finer nature never ceases from his memory the hurt
of the veiled accusations.

''ttswixfn

t/jl> oil) h> n r/o Jijd gnivii

...floiJlk iJ /or; L iov oil) io

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

397

The three Graces — Faith, Hope, Love — have their oppo¬
sites in three Disgraces — Ingratitude, Selfishness, Jealousy —
and these three are often at the root of differences, quarrels,
and hatreds.

Contention, bitterness, intolerance, are not fruits of the
“faith once delivered to the saints.” We must remember that
we arc not made to think and worship alike, but there can be
a personal exemplification of brotherly love. A test of dis-
cipleship is expressed in the words,” By this shall all men
know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love to one another.”

General Jackson was one twitted with the fact that lie
was no longer going around with “a chip on his shoulder.”
Half humorously, lie replied: “I rather think I am growing
more amiable as I grow older, and the chip you accuse me
of has become a burden; I'm glad to get rid of it.” Many
others would find great relief if they, too, would get rid of
“the chip” on the shoulder. It certainly does not detract
from personal dignity or self respect or religious experience
where a man is “kindly affeetioned. in brotherly love” toward
those who may in ways be widely separated from him.

We all need to learn a little more about the real meaning
of the “charitv” that “suffcrelh long and is kind — is not easily
provoked.” It is so easy to become provoked and, in a
thoughtless moment, say or do tilings ttiat otherwise would
not have been said or done. We would despise a machine
that “went all to pieces" at the first test, yet some of us are
not ashamed to admit that we “go all to pieces” at the slight¬
est provocation. A person of this kind is without mercy,
like tlios cwho railed at the Son of Man, “Crucify him. Cru¬
cify him !”

No matter how noble a man may be, if he make a slight
misstep or even if scandal may breathe upon him they arc
ready to cry it out far and wide. It is as our Blessed Lord
would have us act one toward another. What if the Lord
gave to man only that which man deserves? What if He
were devoid of the spiri t of good will and were as censorious
and unmerciful to us as we are sometimes to our fellows?
Who could stand before Him in judgment?

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

We have plenty of charity for our own omissions and
commissions, hut we often allow no excuse for the short¬
comings of others, even though they may have done the hun¬
dred and ninety-nine good deeds for God and man. It is easy
to join the moh in condemnation, hut when the Master says:
“He that is without sin among vou, let him cast the first
stone,” then cpiite a few of the snarling, hooting crowd give
pause and, reflecting on their own moral lapses, quietly slink
away.

I rather suspect that those who are spiritually-minded
heed the command of St. Paul, who said: “if a man he over¬
taken in fault, ye which are spiritual restore such an one in
the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also he
tempted.” Is it not true that the best of us come short of
the glory of God? Accordingly, it will do us all good if we
humbly pray, as did David. “Create in me a new heart, O,
God, and renew a right spirit within me,” for then shall we
the better have good will, good works, good manners, and all
combined in a Christ-like character.

I point, therefore, with pardonable pride, to a Gospel min¬
istry of thirty-seven years, during which time I have been an
ardent advocate, not only of things fundamental, hut also of
“Good Will,” as preached and taught by the Great Xazarene,
Whom I have had the honor and privilege to serve. But
even though my humble efforts should prove only prophetic,
nevertheless, with tireless industry for the welfare of others.
I am happy to subscribe myself an advocate of that for which
our Blessed Lord came into the world, and for which He lived
and died “On earth peace, good will toward men.”

Of all the missionaries I have known, Miranda Plummer-
IToward-Clark was the greatest for intent of purpose, zeal, a
consciousness of the presence of God at all times, and that
service and praise are twin sisters. She told us to stop prais¬
ing God until we serve him !>v loving our fellow-man. Then
our praise would follow as day follows night. The following
article by Rev. Zimmerman, reminds me so of our founder,
that I beg leave to copy the same:

/crl 1 >rni! Hvcivj annul) novoa-yJ-jirll lo rilai

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

399

THE LOSS IS YOURS

Eacli wasted chance for good.

Is your own loss.

Each song you fail to sing.

Is your own loss.

You may refuse to serve.
Another will step forth;

And when the work’s all done.
The loss is yours.

Each soul you fail to save,

Is your own loss.

Each heart you fail to cheer,
Some one will nobly rise.

And do that which is right;

The joy will then he his.

The loss is yours.

Each worship you neglect.

Is your own loss.

Each off’ring you withhold
Is your own loss.

Loyal souls will the needs
Of God’s blest work behold;
They’ll give and worship God, —
The loss is yours.

Each unkind word you speak,

Is your own loss.

Eacli heart you cause to bleed.

Is your own loss.

Others will help and pray;
Others will bless and save.

And at the Judgment I)av,

The loss is yours.

By L. M. Zimmerman, D. D.

100

OUT OF TIIE DEPTHS, OR

THE CHURCH AND MISSIONS

Missions are Primary and not Secondary

Our blessed Lord came as the first great Missionary to
save us from our sins, and if we are truly saved and arc Ilis
followers, then we are saved for service. Our orders are
plain. We are commanded by the Great Captain of our
salvation to “go out in the highways and hedges and compel”
the unsaved to be brought within the hearing of the preached
word, and a saving knowledge of the truth of God. This
does not mean that a few shall do the work, but that the
whole church is called upon of God to go forth in search of
the lost. Christ says: “As the Father hath sent me. so send
I you.” The true convert, therefore, has his orders; and the
church is the divinely appointed channel through which God
by the power of the Holy Ghost sends redeeming grace.

Take our large cities; what are we doing for the saving
of many of the outcasts. 1 1 le neglected, by way of “inner mis¬
sion work?” The fields are truly ripe unto the harvest.
Young men and women are drifting into the whirl-pool of
sin and destruction, and the church is called upon of God
to help rescue the perishing, not only abroad, but in the ne¬
glected sections of our large cities. Many are drifting away
from our Sunday Schools and Churches, with little eifort to
reclaim them, except as the preacher may here and there go
after them. \Ye need the united ellort of every Christian in
our Sunday Schools and ('hurdles to save the lost, other¬
wise the work will not be done. God help every one to be a
true missionary of the cross and go forth to seek and save
the wanderer and the lost. First, Christianize thoroughly
the home, then help to Christianize the homes of those who
know not God. “The fields are truly ripe unto the harvest.”
and there is need of more consecrated laborers who are will¬
ing, like Christ, to go out among the meek and lowly as they
take up the labor of love.

We must not depend upon mere specialists and profes¬
sional men and women. There is danger of over organizing,
professionalizing and institutionalizing our Christianity. Ev¬
ery member of the Church should say: “Lord, here am I,
what wilt thou have me do?”

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od Ion Hi'// jlinw oil! D«i//

.u mu '/ hut; mm Iiotom

IjIuoilfS ibouiL) oil i lo ndnioin

*’“ob o«i ov o/f unrli j I i v/ ji [£vx

THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

401

The Field is the World and Missions is the Great Theme

The world for Christ and Christ for the world. The
more the world learns to know of Christ, the more people will
learn to know of God, for, says Christ: “I and the Father are
one.” The Church must not be selfish, nor is it enough to
sing and pray, important as these things may be. Faith with¬
out works is dead. We need more workers, not simply the
“faithful few,” but the whole army of God should be on the
“firing line.” Visions and dreams are all right in their place,
but mere visions and dreams will not evangelize the world.
We must give of our money, our influence, and best of all. we
must give ourselves as servants of God. Wherever the fields
are ripe unto the harvest, we should go forth as laborers, and
not look on idlv. Work. Work, Work, is an element of suc¬
cess not only in temporal tilings, but also in spiritual affairs.
“Go forth and make disciples.” Of whom? “OF ALL NA¬
TIONS.”

We must send the word of God unto those who are in for¬
eign lands. It is our duty by prayer, money, works, an influ¬
ence to help Christianize all nations. Unfortunately there
are many who are idle. They hear the words: “Come unto Me
and find rest.” but seem deaf to the command: “Go work in
My vineyard.” “Go make disciples of all nations.”

Only when we seek to obev will God’s precious promise
be fulfilled to us: “Lo, 1 am with you alway, even unto the
end of the world.”

Divine Leadership

In all ages the people of God have enjoyed divine guid¬
ance. We must walk and talk with God in prayer, in song,
and in testimony, if we would know his voice. Peter declared
he would never be offended, and within a few hours went
down under temptation. For to be carnally minded is death,
but to be spiritually minded is life, lie had the carnal mind,
the cause of his overestimating his spiritual strength. Hear
Christ saving to him: “When thou art converted, strengthen
the brethren.”

“Reloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits
whether they be of God (I John 4:1). God’s children should

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402

OUT OF THU DEPTHS, OR

not accept the testimony of every one. Strangers coming
among them may be wolves in sheep’s clothing. They should
try the spirits and know that they be of God. If they be of
God, there will be unity. One wolf among a flock of sheep
can do great damage. The New Testament Church has the
gift of discernment, and knows how to guard against the in¬
vasion of human wolves.

To us this church is the pioneer of civilization, the stead¬
fast friend of progress, and enlightenment, the truest bene¬
factor of the human race. The church of God marshals her
mighty forces against all that is vicious and immoral in the
individual or in the congregation, or world.

Our highest ideals of manhood, our purest standards of
morality, our assured and settled hopes of a blessed immor¬
tality have come to us alone, through the doctrines of the
Christian Church.

The enfranchisement of the slave, the curbing of royal
tyranny, the defense of I he poor, the exaltation of woman to
her God given sphere, the great moral revolutions that have
swept away error and corruption in high places, — all that man
now or ever will call blessed is embraced in the history of the
Christian Church, of which ours, I trust is no exception.

It is no easy task to lead such mighty intluences; to stem
unmoved and immovable the rushing current of atheism and
materialism; to drive back into fearful disorder every sacri-
ligious invader from its sacred soil, and to come forth after
twenty centuries the hero of every battlefield. This is an ir¬
refutable testimony to the divinitv of God’s Church.

This record is the result of unswerving loyalty to Truth,
— the Truth of which Jesus said, — “And ye shall know the
Truth, and the Truth shall make you free.” John 8:32. This
is the sword she has always unsheathed in the presence of
her enemies, and with which cverv victorv has been achieved.

lleb. 4:12, 13, and Eph. (4:10-20.

Our church has been urged to guard against mere formal¬
ity. “A living dog is better than a dead lion.” We imagine
one of the most pleasant and exhilarating sights for his Sa¬
tanic majesty is a Church chasing the butterfly of form and
fashion. Now, to hold its own the church must stand and

unitedly contend against inward as well as outward foes.

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

403

We have yet to learn that Church independence is modi¬
fied by interdependent relations with other churches. This
fact does not destroy individual equality. We are links in
the great chain of Christian existence, weaken one, and you
affect all in proportion, for “no man livetli unto himself, and
no man dieth unto himself,” — no chain is stronger than its
weakest link.

Our independence becomes more potential and far-reach¬
ing as we recognize how dependent we are on others for mu¬
tual counsel and cooperation, and how necessary it is to the
protection of all those interests we love so dearly. It is thus
made to contribute to the idea of Church Unitv. It strength-
ens because it unites. So the church must present a solid
phalanx against every foe, whether internal or external. Al¬
ways remembering that her mission is to conquer the world
by the Spirit of Christ.

MRS. RACHEL PLUMMER-CARTER.

Sitter of Adam F. Plummer, — Mother of Mrs. Charlotte Shields.

404

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

The Holy Spirit lias little regard for what some call
propriety. If He is allowed to have the right of way, He
will smash up their old forms, set aside the traditions of
men, and bring astonishing revelations of truth to the heart.
“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, ‘Go near, and join thyself
unto the chariot.’ ” Blessed is every one who obeys as Philip
did. When the Holy Spirit sends a person on an errand. He
prepares the way before him. Young preachers often miss
God’s plan for their life’s work, destroy their health, and lose
their souls because of a foolish ambition for intellectual great¬
ness, or still worse, a gigantic pretense.

We cannot have divine leadership without divine com¬
munication. Much has been said about ours being a “little
Church.’’ I have shown that for economic reasons, and that
only, have we remained small in number. Manv times have
we been made to erv out: “Surelv this is none other than the
house of God,— the very gates of Heaven to our souls!” Many,
O so many have gone through the “Gates,” here.

The heavenly weapons of faith, trust, and obedience arc
more than necessary in wielding the sword of the Spirit,
which is the Word of God. “Except ye be converted, and
become as little children, ve shall not enter into the Kingdom
of Heaven.” With humilitv and the above weapons we may
be whatever we wish for thoughts are things.

The Word is the seed. Prayer is the warmth (desire).
Song is the wafer and soil. So we cannot do awav with the
nower of sacred song. Our choir was never called the “War
Department” of the church. We believe that the church
services should so anpeal to each and every one that he would
feel like singing. So a choir should on tv be used to lead the
church is sacred song. Not to sing FOR others, but to lead
every soul to sing for himself. That is whv we believe in
teaching the congregation to sing by a Spirit-baptized choir.

In a vision, we were warned of the terrible influenza that
carried so many to their graves in 1918. We mounted the
stairway in our childhood home. Not three feet away sat
Dr. Booker I. Washington with his watch in hand, looking
earnestly at its face. At his back stood Robert F. Plummer,
Ph. IX, dressed all in white, waiting we thought, for prescrip¬
tions. The two little while iron beds in which we used to

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

405

sleep, multiplied, and multiplied until they reached to Bal¬
timore, in our imagination, as we stood, astonished at finding
the “doctor” and pharmacist up-stairs. So vividly did it im¬
press me that we still remember the snow white counterpanes
on the beautifully made-up beds, many of which were almost
entirely covered with leafy vines. Although we did not have
the “flu,” could we tell you how anxious we were on account
of relatives and friends, you would not wonder at the warn¬
ing being sent to us.

Then, in December, 1922, we were in company with Mrs.
Anna Eliza Williams, and were led to look over a banister.
We had no idea how high we were up until we looked far,
far below. So high were we that the largest objects appeared
mere pigmies. Mrs. Williams asked: “Whose funeral is this?”
As she spoke, a work-engine came in sight, drawing the long¬
est train of mud cars that can be imagined. They extended
until the mud-boxes seemed like tiny thimbles. We replied
we did not know there was a funeral. She said: “O, yes,
there is, for hatred, jealousy, selfishness, scorn, lies, false
pretenses, envy, self-pity, murder, and all kindred wrongs are
loaded in those mud-boxes. But if we abide up here in the
Church, not one bit of that mud can harm us.” The last
glimpssc we had of the mud-car it was running terribly
down grade appearing smaller, and smaller. On awakening*
we were glad we could say with the Psalmist: “Lord, I have
loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine
honor dwellcth.” (Ps. 20:8). In less than two months, the
dream was realized. Never was there such an attack on our
entire family, father and mother, parents, married May 30,
1841), as was made known February 23, 1923. When asked:
“What are these wounds?”, we promptly answered: “Those
with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.”
But their plot failed. It vanished as the mists. For our
surety was in doing right.

Little City, Little Church

“This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it
seemed great to me: There was a little city, and few men
within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged
it, and built great bulwarks against it: Now there was found in
it a poor wise man, and he, by his wisdom, delivered that

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106

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

same poor man. Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength;
nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his
words are not heard. The words of wise men are heard in
quiet, more than the cry of him that rulcth among fools.

Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner
deslroyeth much good.” (Eccle. 9:13-18).

My interpretation of this: St. Paul’s Baptist Church,
Bladcnsburg, Md., or the “little” Church, is the little city.
“Few men within it” means the very few of us capable of
teaching and leading to higher things. In “Great king against
it,” I see all the wrong with which we have had to contend.
“A poor wise man” means Sarah Miranda Plummer, and all
those who helped her to make this day possible to us. So
it is not by might, nor by power (numbers), but by My Spirit,
saitli the Lord. The Holy Spirit’s descending power has
touched and thrilled our souls until they have trembled with
heavenly light, and broke forth in praise and thanksgiving.
So we believe, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither havq
entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared for them that love Him.” “Where two or three are
gathered, there am I to bless.” says Jesus. Our New Testa¬
ment Church is built on Christ, and against her, the gates of
.hell cannot prevail. It is a regenerated Church, a Spirit-bap¬
tized Church of water-baotized believes, a joyful, witnessing
Church, going forth with girded loins and burning lamp,
carrying the salvation of a lost world upon its heart, and
looking forward to that blessed hope, and glorious appearing
of the Great God and our Savior, Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).
She is as fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as
an army with banners.

Having learned that to be carnally minded it death; but
to be spiritually minded is life and peace, we ask: “Who shall
separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or
distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or
sword? Nav. in all these t lings we are more than conquerors
through Him that loved us. For 1 am persuaded, that neither
death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor
things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor
any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love
ol God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE CROSS

407

“Hallelujah! who shall part

Christ’s own Church from Christ’s own heart?

Sever from the Savior’s side*

Souls for whom the Savior died?

Dash one precious jewel down
From Immanuel’s blood-bought crown?
Hallelujah! shall the sword
Part us from our glorious Lord?

Trouble dark or dire disgrace
E’er the Spirit’s seal efface?

Famine, nakedness, or hate,

Bride and Bride-groom separate?

Hallelujah! life nor death,

Powers above, nor powers beneath.

Monarch’s might, nor tyrant’s doom,

Men nor angels, e’er shall part

Christ’s own Church from Christ’s own heart!”

••THE RABBIT GUM."

Our Church Home, 1870-1873.

Where the Union and Sunday School were Born,
and where I received my First Communion.
(Defence Highway, — Bladensburg, Md.)

OUT OF tup: depths, ok

ios

THE END,

By Way of the Changed Cross:

THE CHANGED CROSS

It was a time of sadness, and my heart.

Although it knew and loved the better part,

Fell wearied with the conflict and the strife,

And all the needful discipline of life.

And while I thought on these, as given to me —

My trial tests of faith and love to be —

It seemed as if I never could be sure

That faithful to the end I should endure.

And thus, no longer trusting to His might

Who savs, “We walk hv faith, and not bv sight,”
Doubting, and almost yielding to despair.

The .thought arose — My cross I cannot bear:

Far heavier its weight must surely be

Than those of others which I daily see.

Oh, if I might another burden choose,

Methinks I should not fear my crown to lose.

A solemn silence reigned on all around —

E’en Nature’s voices uttered not a sound;

The evening shadows seemed of peace to tell,

And sleep upon my weary spirit fell.

A moment’s pause — and then a heavenly light

Beamed full upon mv wondering, raptured sight;
Angels on silvery wings seemed everywhere.

And angels’ music thrilled the balmy air.

Then One, more fair than all the rest to see —

One to whom all the others bowed the knee —
Came gently to me as 1 trembling lay.

And, “Follow me,” He said: “1 am the Way.”
Then, speaking thus. He led me far above.

And there, beneath a canopy of love.

Crosses of divers shape and size were seen.

Larger and smaller than my own had been.

And one there was, most beauteous to behold,

A little one, with jewels set in gold.

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THE TRIUMPH OF TI1E CROSS

409

Ah, this, melhought, I can with comfort wear.

For it will be an easy one to bear:

And so t lie little cross I quickly took;

Rut, all at once, my frame beneath it shook.

The sparkling jewels, fair were they to see,

Rut far too heavy was their weight for me.

“This may not be,” I cried, and looked again.

To see if there was any here could ease my pain:

Rut, one by one, I passed them slowly by,

Till on a lovely one I cast mv eye.

Fair flowers around its sculptured form entwined.
And grace and beauty seemed in it combined.

Wondering, I gazed; and still 1 wondered more
To think so many should have passed it o'er.

Rut oh, that form so beautiful to see

Soon made its hidden sorrows known to me;

Thorns lay beneath those flowers and colours fair,
Sorrowing, I said: “This cross I may not bear.”

And so it was with each and all around —

Not one to suit my need could there be found;

Weeping, I laid each heavy burden down.

As my Guide gently said: “No cross, no crown!’*

At length, to Him I raised my saddened heart:

He knew its sorrows, hid its doubts depart.

“Re not afraid,” He said, “but trust in me —

My perfect love shall now be shown to thee.”

And then, with lightened eyes and willing feet,

Again I turned, my earthly cross to meet.

With forward footsteps, turning not aside.

For fear some hidden evil might betide;

And there — in the prepared, appointed way.
Listening to hear, and ready to obey —

A cross I quickly found of plainest form.

With only words of love inscribed thereon.

With thankfulness I raised it from the rest.

And joyfully asknowlodged it the best —

The only one of all the many there

That I could feel was good for me to bear.

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410

OUT OF THE DEPTHS, OR

And, while I thus my chosen one confessed,

I saw a heavenly brightness on it rest;

And, as I bent, my burden to sustain,

I recognised my own old cross again.

But oh, how different did it seem to be

Now I learned its preciousness to see.

No longer could I unbelieving say,

Perhaps another is a better way.

Ah, no, henceforth my own desire shall be,

That He who knows me best should choose for me
And so, what’er His love sees good to send,

I’ll trust it’s best, because He knows the end.

FINIS

. . .

THE TRIUMPH OF THE GROSS 411

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

PAGE

Alden, Mary . ...261

Alden-Tinker Home . 264

Arnold, Nellie O. S . 70

Arnold, Mrs. Mary H . 293

Arnold, Rev. Wm. R . 290

Bag . 80

Bartlett, Miss J. M . 137

Bingham, Col. Benj.JF . 257

Brown, John . 97

Brown, '.Margaret*? . 51

Brown, Robt. P. and Nellie P . 192

Brooks. Mrs. Henrietta . 296

Burke, Mrs. Ida Plummer . 222

Calvert Mansion . 65

Carpenter, “Lady” Elizabeth . 301

Carter, Mrs. Rachel P . 403

Clark, Sarah M . 24

Gardner, Miss Bessie E . 1 5 1

Hall, Rev. F. G . 23b

Home of Adam F. Plummer . 75

Home of Adam F. Plummer . uc

Howard, Rev. Wm. J . 243

King, Miss Ella P . 156

King, Dr. G. M. P . 131

King, Dr. and Mr. G. M. P . 134

Lee, Dr. Mattie V. S . 229

Lewis, Miss . 26S (

Lincoln . 105

Lucas, Rev. G. W . 3S5

Million Dollar Baby . 20S

Mother’s Feather Bed . SO

Orphans' Home — Old Building . 159

Orphans Home — New Building . tbo

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Peterson, Miss Emma . 213

Plummer, Adam F . 12

Plummer, Adam F . 90

Plummer, The Adam F. Family Group . 164

Plummer, Adam F’s. Residence . 168

Plummer, Rev. Elias Q . 33

Plummer, Frank V. and Nellie B . 2or

Plummer, Emily S . 13

Plummer, Chaplain H. V . 30

Plummer, Rev. H. V’s. Residence . 1S7

Plummer, Nellie Arnold . 6i

Plummer, Nicholas Saunders . 47

Plummer, The Nicholas Saunders Family Group . . . 1 Si

Plummer, Nicholas Saunders’ Residence . 172

Plummer, Dr. Robt. F . 55

Plummer, Dr. Robt. F. and Miss Nellie A . 272

Plummer, Dr. Robt. F. ’s Residence . 204

“Rabbit Gum,” The . 41°

Ruffin, Julia Plummer . 4°

Simms, Miss Loretta . 343

St. Paul’s Baptist Church — Old Church . 279

St. Paul’s Baptist Church — New Church . 2S7

Storum, Prof. James . M7

Storum, Miss Sarepta . 149

Tarbell Home, The . L39

Thompson, Mrs. Fannie and Daughter . 217

Washington, Booker T . 253

Way land Seminary . J32

Wigginton, Prof. John Harvey .

Winston, Mrs. Margaret A . 352

Wood lawn . . . 107

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